National Police have arrested a 52-year-old man in Orihuela accused of carrying out a violent robbery against another man. The arrest took place just hours after the 46-year-old victim reported the incident at the local police station.

According to police, the suspect approached the victim while he was using a cash machine in the town. Officers say the man, who was known locally, allegedly struck the victim in the chest and demanded money while brandishing a small pistol and a knife.

Police say the suspect then forced the victim to return to his home to continue the robbery. Once there, he reportedly took part of the money and continued to threaten him for more cash. The victim managed to escape by telling the attacker he would withdraw more money from a cash machine, and instead went directly to the police.

Investigators quickly identified and located the suspect at his home, where he was arrested. The victim also told officers he had suffered a similar incident involving the same man the previous month but had not reported it due to fear of reprisals. The suspect has been brought before Orihuela’s duty investigating court.