In Novelda, a dramatic jewelry store robbery prompted a swift response from the Civil Guard. The incident ended with the liberation of the city’s shopkeeper and the arrest of two attackers who had kidnapped the victim and ransacked the store.
The violent break-in occurred on a Friday afternoon at 13:35 when two men entered the central shop near a popular casino, capitalizing on the moment when the store was not at full capacity and a customer remained inside.
Brandishing knives, the assailants threatened the staff and forced one worker to the ground, binding their wrists so movement was impossible while the thieves searched the premises.
For about twenty minutes the intruders rifled through display cabinets and tables, grabbing jewelry, watches, and a substantial amount of cash.
However, a Civil Guard patrol conducting routine surveillance in the area swiftly moved toward the scene. The officers, arriving at Calle Emilio Castelar 29 in the urban district along with a companion unit, drew their weapons and entered the store.
The two robbers were neutralized, the victim was freed, and the stolen items were recovered.
Minutes later, several Local Police units arrived to assist and then escorted the detainees to the Novelda Civil Guard Main Station for formal processing.
Prosecutor seeks 123 years for three suspects charged with hostage robbery at a Novelda bank
The suspects are reported to be between 20 and 40 years old and of Arab origin, with their exact nationality and residence still undetermined.
The robbery victim did not sustain physical injuries but suffered an anxiety episode and was sent to a health center for evaluation and care.
Three suspects in a Novelda bank robbery claim a fourth person planned the heist
Investigators continue to explore the possibility that the attackers acted as part of a gang, with a third accomplice waiting nearby in a vehicle to aid in a quick getaway.