The Civil Guard has detained a thirty-eight-year-old man and woman in connection with a series of luxury thefts totalling over one hundred and forty thousand euros. They are suspected of committing six crimes using the so-called ‘hug method,’ which involves distracting victims through feigned affection. This method typically targets older individuals who may be more vulnerable.

On the first of May in Calpe, officers observed a suspicious vehicle moving unusually slowly, with the occupants paying close attention to elderly pedestrians. Upon checking the vehicle’s details, they discovered it was linked to prior criminal activities, leading to the identification of the suspects, who were already subject to an arrest warrant for a violent robbery in Marbella weeks earlier.

While the officers were making the arrests, they received reports that the same couple had just committed another theft, this time in Calpe, where they stole two gold chains from a tourist using physical contact as a diversion. Further investigation attributed four more similar incidents to the couple since April, including violent robberies of high-end watches across multiple locations.

The Civil Guard has urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid displaying valuable items. They advise against trusting offers from strangers and caution against allowing unnecessary close contact with suspicious individuals. In case of doubt, people should seek assistance from others and contact emergency services immediately.