After a protracted investigation, authorities in Alicante identified the individual suspected of a July 2021 bank robbery at gunpoint, an incident that resulted in the theft of more than 3,000 euros. The hunt stretched over months and involved detailed review of security footage, witness accounts, and forensic leads, all aimed at bringing the culprit to justice.
On Tuesday, the magistrate on duty ordered the arrest detainee to be held in custody as part of the ongoing cases opened by the Alicante 7th Investigation Court. The transfer to prison occurred within the framework of the court process surrounding these events, with prosecutors seeking detention after investigators initially released the detainee for further evaluation. Eyewitnesses from the bank attack had ultimately affirmed the suspect’s identity. (Citation: Alicante Justice Administration)
The robbery occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. on July 8, 2021, at the BBVA office on Novelda Boulevard in Alicante, just a short distance from Gran Vía. The assailant appeared at a moment when the branch would typically be closed and the staff had begun to unlock and prepare the premises for the afternoon. (Citation: Local Police Reports)
Real or simulated weapon
The individual wore a motorcyclist helmet and a hygienic mask during the offense. Once the safe entries were opened, the attacker forced four employees to comply with demands for cash. It has not been confirmed whether the weapon carried was real or a replica. (Citation: Alicante Investigative Channel)
With the cash secured, the robber fled the office on foot. There is speculation that a motorcycle, possibly stationed nearby, served as a quick getaway tool, allowing a rapid exit before police units could reach the scene. (Citation: Police Briefing)
Upon receiving the theft report, police teams arrived promptly at the location. Responding units included the Citizen Security Brigade, alongside specialists from the Scientific Police and Judicial Police. The combined investigative effort focused on reconstructing the sequence of events and identifying the attacker’s movements. (Citation: Alicante Police Service)
Interviews with staff were conducted to glean physical characteristics of the assailant. However, pinpointing the culprit proved extremely challenging because the individual concealed much of his face with a mask and the helmet, complicating facial recognition and overall identification. (Citation: Forensic Interview Summary)
In truth, locating and arresting the suspect proved elusive for two years and eight months following the robbery, a period marked by meticulous case-building, tip reviews, and ongoing coordination between local law enforcement and judicial authorities. (Citation: Court Chronicle)