Barcelona apartment thieves operating throughout the summer have been arrested after using a sophisticated marking system to identify vacant properties.
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According to Catalan police reports, the gang placed glue markers on apartment doors to track when residents were away, particularly targeting homes during the August and September holiday period.
The three men, aged between 40 and 43, had approximately twelve previous convictions for similar offences. Their arrest follows an initial identification by officers from the Urban Crime Group at Sants-Montjuïc police station in early June. Consequently, the Multiple Reoffenders Unit launched a full investigation to identify all gang members.
Barcelona Apartment Thieves Employed Systematic Approach
On October 14th, during surveillance operations, investigators spotted the three suspects carrying a backpack stolen during a previous robbery. Police immediately detained the men and, with judicial authorisation, conducted searches at two properties in Barcelona and Badalona.
Furthermore, officers recovered specialised burglary equipment including lock picks, tools for manufacturing them, lock-opening devices, and disguises to partially conceal their faces. Additionally, they seized €10,000 in cash and various jewellery items.
The investigation has linked the Barcelona apartment thieves to at least 13 forced break-ins across the city during August and September. These included four incidents in Sant Martí district, four in Les Corts, and five in Eixample. The gang’s method remained consistent throughout their operations.
Meanwhile, this arrest comes as authorities continue to address broader security concerns in the city. The successful operation demonstrates improved coordination between police units targeting organised criminal activity.
The suspects would gain entry to buildings by waiting for opportunities or using excuses to access common areas. They then placed glue markers on the interior sides of apartment doors and monitored them regularly. Days later, they would return to check which marked apartments showed no recent activity.
Therefore, they specifically targeted properties where residents hadn’t entered for several days, stealing valuable items before making their escape. The Barcelona apartment thieves exploited the fact that many residents take holidays during August and September, typically operating at night to avoid suspicion.
The three detained men appeared before the Barcelona duty court on October 16th. This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and proper security measures, particularly during holiday periods when properties may be left unattended for extended durations.
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