In several Spanish cities, police have arrested a criminal group whose members specialized in stealing from elderly people. Their method was simple yet effective: the perpetrators would approach pensioners, feigning care and friendliness, and within minutes would deprive them of their valuables.
The operation to detain the suspects began after a series of complaints from victims. It was revealed that the criminals operated according to a well-practiced scheme: one or two women, neatly dressed and strikingly friendly, would approach their victims in public places—most often near pharmacies, parks, or medical centers. Under the pretext of asking for help or simply starting a conversation, they would adopt a ‘warm’ manner, sometimes even hinting at flirtation. At that moment, expensive watches, jewelry, or cash that the pensioners had just withdrawn from an ATM would be discreetly taken.
Before the victims could realize what had happened, an accomplice was already waiting in a nearby car to make a quick getaway. In most cases, the victims only noticed the loss when they got home, when it was already too late to take action on their own.
International operation and arrests
The investigation led authorities to an entire network based in Madrid but operating across the country. The criminals regularly changed cities to avoid drawing attention and to keep police off their trail. Ultimately, thanks to cooperation with European partners, twelve people—eight men and four women—were arrested in Romania. After extradition, all were taken into custody in Spain.
During searches conducted in Spain and Romania, police found dozens of luxury watches, gold jewelry, and large sums of cash. In addition, authorities seized real estate and vehicles purchased with stolen funds. The gang leaders led a lavish lifestyle, investing in expensive houses and cars, while the lower-level members tried not to stand out and lived modestly.
Crime geography and precautionary measures
The group operated not only in Madrid, but also in Barcelona, Sevilla, Valencia, Alicante, Granada, and Murcia. Their victims were often tourists and locals in popular districts. Stolen goods were sent to Romania, hidden among clothing or household appliances.
Police remind the public: if you notice someone showing unusual interest in you on the street, stay alert. Criminals may use any excuse to approach, taking advantage of carelessness and trust. It’s important to remain vigilant, especially when withdrawing cash at ATMs or walking alone.
As a result of a large-scale operation, some of the stolen property was recovered and new crimes were prevented. The investigation is ongoing, and the detainees are awaiting trial on charges of forming a criminal group, multiple thefts, and robberies.
