On Tuesday, 21 April, Guàrdia Urbana de Barcelona officers arrested a 23-year-old repeat offender. He attempted to steal a €45,000 watch on Passeig de Gràcia. He then fled into the Barcelona Metro tunnels, causing significant disruption to Line 3 service.
The incident began around 16:30. Plainclothes officers from the Eixample district observed the man acting suspiciously near Plaça de Catalunya. He openly scrutinised watches worn by passers-by. Police discreetly followed the individual as he continued along Passeig de Gràcia. This is a prominent shopping avenue known for luxury boutiques. Shortly after 17:00, officers witnessed the suspect violently attempt to snatch a €45,000 watch from a man. The victim was looking into a shop window. A security guard from the establishment intervened when the victim resisted. This prompted the thief to flee the scene.
Guàrdia Urbana agents pursued the suspect into the Diagonal Metro station. This is a major interchange serving the Eixample and Gràcia districts. To evade arrest, the man jumped onto the tracks of Line 3. He headed towards Trinitat Nova. This dangerous act forced Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) to halt metro service on the line. This prevented a potential accident. Officers requested immediate support from other patrols in the area. They provided details of the suspect's escape route. A second Guàrdia Urbana unit from the Gràcia district positioned themselves on the platform at Fontana Metro station. This is the next stop after Diagonal. When the suspect emerged from the tunnel, officers apprehended him.
Arrest and Prior Offences
Police arrested the 23-year-old on suspicion of violent robbery. Further checks revealed he carried €1,600 in cash. Police believe this cash originated from other criminal activities. The individual, identified as being of Maghrebi origin, has a history of multiple police arrests for various offences. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about street crime targeting high-value items in central Barcelona. Passeig de Gràcia is an iconic boulevard. It is home to luxury brands and architectural landmarks. It attracts both residents and international visitors, making it a frequent target for such crimes.
Public Transport Disruption
The temporary suspension of Line 3 service significantly impacted commuters and residents. This is one of Barcelona's busiest metro lines. Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) prioritised passenger safety. They halted trains until the tracks were clear. Line 3 connects key areas from Zona Universitària to Trinitat Nova. It serves thousands of daily passengers. Such disruptions underscore the challenges faced by the city's public transport network. This includes dealing with criminal activity and the need for swift police action.
Authorities transported the suspect to a police station. He awaits judicial disposition before a duty judge. He faces charges related to the attempted violent robbery and his extensive prior criminal record. This case underscores the Guàrdia Urbana's efforts to combat repeat offenders in Barcelona.
Come and join our Barcelona English Speakers community on WhatsApp.
Originally published by El Caso (El Nacional). Read original article.
