Police have arrested three men for a series of at least 10 coordinated robberies targeting tourists in central Barcelona using the ‘tire-puncturing’ method.
The Mossos d’Esquadra detained the men, aged between 43 and 49, following an investigation into incidents that occurred between August 9 and September 25.
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Consequently, the suspects are now accused of belonging to a criminal group and committing theft and damage offences.
How the Tire-Puncturing Robbery Method Works
The criminal technique involves intentionally puncturing the tyres of a target vehicle. The perpetrators then approach the driver, ostensibly to offer assistance. They subsequently use this moment of distraction to steal valuable items from inside the car. The group primarily targeted tourists of Asian origin, according to police reports. Their total haul included handbags, electronic devices, documentation, and credit cards worth approximately €40,000.
On November 26, investigators executed a specific operation leading to the arrests in the Ciutat Vella and Sants-Montjuïc districts. Furthermore, authorities seized two motorcycles used by the group to carry out the robberies and facilitate their escape. The detained individuals, who collectively have 104 prior arrests between them, were placed at the disposal of the judicial authorities on November 27.
This case highlights ongoing security challenges in tourist-heavy areas. Meanwhile, other traffic and safety issues persist across the city, requiring continued police attention. The tire-puncturing method demonstrates a calculated approach to exploiting vulnerable visitors, a concern for local authorities tasked with protecting Barcelona’s international reputation.
According to the official statement from the Mossos d’Esquadra, the suspects acted in a coordinated fashion. The police emphasise that these types of crimes often involve the use of motorcycles or mopeds to identify victims, commit the offence, and guarantee a quick getaway. This arrest operation therefore represents a significant breakthrough in tackling a specific pattern of tourist-targeted crime.
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