National Police in Oviedo have detained two Georgian nationals linked to a series of home burglaries in Asturias and Zamora. The suspects allegedly used discreet markers to identify unoccupied properties. Authorities urge vigilance in residential areas.
National Police in Oviedo have arrested two men of Georgian nationality, believed to be part of an organized group specializing in residential burglaries. The operation concluded last Thursday, 6 August, as the suspects prepared to leave the province after spending four days in the area. Investigators have so far connected them to a break-in in Siero (Asturias) and another burglary in Zamora province that occurred a month earlier.
During the search, officers seized a flathead screwdriver—commonly used to force entry and break locks—along with various other items. The ongoing investigation points to a pattern typical of itinerant gangs: properties were selected in advance, and the suspects monitored the movements of residents before acting.
One of the key techniques uncovered involves placing nearly invisible markers, such as thin silicone threads, glue, or transparent materials, in the door frame or slot. Other methods included using plastic strips or small folded papers, all designed to go unnoticed by homeowners. If these markers remained undisturbed for several days, the gang interpreted this as a sign that the property was unoccupied and proceeded with the burglary.
Police emphasize that community cooperation is essential to disrupt these networks. Residents are encouraged to report unfamiliar individuals loitering in communal areas or any unusual activity near entrances and hallways to the authorities through standard channels. This approach has proven effective in other cases, such as the recent crackdown on counterfeit firearms production in Barcelona, which highlighted the evolving tactics of organized crime (see details on the Barcelona operation).
According to official data, Spain has seen a rise in burglaries involving itinerant groups, often operating across multiple provinces. These gangs typically rely on subtle surveillance and advanced methods to avoid detection. The use of discreet markers is not new, but its prevalence has increased in recent years, prompting law enforcement to issue regular warnings. In Asturias and other regions, police have intensified patrols and awareness campaigns, especially in residential neighborhoods with a high proportion of second homes or properties left vacant for extended periods. The arrests in Oviedo underscore the importance of vigilance and rapid reporting of suspicious behavior, as authorities continue to adapt their strategies to counter increasingly sophisticated criminal operations.
