The Guardia Civil has dismantled an alleged criminal group linked to the armed robbery of a shop in Cartagena in May. Three men, aged 40, 53 and 73, have been arrested on suspicion of robbery with violence causing injuries, vehicle theft, illegal possession of a firearm, drug offences and membership of a criminal group.

Two men allegedly entered the shop carrying a gun and a machete. Investigators say they assaulted and tied up the owner, leaving him injured, before taking €7,000 and the keys to his vehicle. The stolen car was later recovered.

The investigation, known as Operation Qruens, identified one suspect and led to a court-approved search of a property in Cartagena. Officers found a revolver and ammunition, handcuffs, a bulletproof vest, a police vest, more than €3,000 in cash, hashish, cocaine and marijuana. They also dismantled an indoor cannabis-growing operation and recovered jewellery believed to have been stolen. Two other alleged members were arrested in Valencia. The investigation remains open.