A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery with violence following an incident near a primary school in Orihuela Costa.

The robbery took place at around 9am yesterday near Number 20 Infant and Primary School, close to Villamartín, during the busy morning drop-off period. According to Local Police, the suspect was travelling on a personal mobility vehicle when he allegedly pushed a woman to the ground and stole her handbag.

Officers were regulating traffic and access outside the prefabricated school buildings when witnesses alerted them. Police immediately gave chase on foot. The suspect ignored officers’ instructions and attempted to flee, allegedly throwing the stolen bag away during the pursuit. It was recovered by officers and returned to its owner.

The woman was treated at the scene and later taken to a health centre for further assessment. The suspect was informed of his rights and handed over to the Guardia Civil, who are continuing the investigation. Police said the swift response helped ensure safety in what they described as a particularly sensitive area near a school entrance.