The National Police have detained a twenty-four-year-old man in Alicante, identified as the alleged perpetrator of six crimes committed at cash machines in the city. The suspect, who has a long criminal record, is accused of stealing more than five thousand four hundred euros using a technique known as ‘planting’. In one incident, he resorted to physical violence to ensure the theft was successful.

The perpetrator’s method involved targeting individuals aged fifty-four to eighty-two years, distracting them as they began their transactions. While the victim was momentarily distracted, he observed their personal identification number, manipulated the ATM, and withdrew the maximum amount possible, usually nine hundred euros.

Authorities initiated an investigation after receiving multiple similar complaints. Review of security camera footage led to the identification of the suspect, who had accumulated twenty-nine arrests within the past eight months for violent thefts and scams. During his arrest, police recovered clothing matching that worn during three of the reported incidents.

The accused has been presented before the Court of First Instance in Alicante, facing charges of fraud and robbery with violence and intimidation. The National Police have issued recommendations for the public, particularly targeting the elderly, advising against accepting help from strangers at ATMs and to remain vigilant during transactions.