Two people have been arrested in Torrevieja after a gold chain was stolen from an elderly person using the so-called “hug” method, in which offenders distract victims by embracing them.

The Guardia Civil said the theft happened last Tuesday at around 1pm near Curva del Palangre. A local resident witnessed the incident and filmed the exact moment the chain was taken, providing key evidence for investigators.

Officers quickly gathered details of the getaway vehicle and set up a search operation. Within minutes, patrols stationed on one of the main exits from Torrevieja stopped a car matching the description. A search of the vehicle and its occupants led to the gold chain being found in the woman’s trouser pocket. Both suspects were arrested on suspicion of theft and later released with precautionary measures by a court.

Although police have images of the victim, they are appealing for help to formally identify the person so the recovered chain can be returned. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Guardia Civil’s main post in Torrevieja on 965 71 01 13.