UK Authorities Jail Two Members of Balearic Luxury Watch Robbery Gang
Two suspects linked to a violent luxury watch theft ring targeting tourists in Spain’s Balearic Islands have been arrested and imprisoned in the United Kingdom, Spanish police confirmed this week. A third accomplice remains at large as international investigations continue.
Half-Million Euro Crime Spree
The Policia Nacional revealed the organized crime group stole four high-end watches valued at €525,000 during a five-day spree across Mallorca and Ibiza in August 2023. The thieves specifically targeted affluent visitors in tourist hotspots:
- August 22, Mallorca: Two violent robberies within one hour netted €95,000 worth of watches
- August 25-28, Ibiza: Two additional thefts totaling €430,000
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Sophisticated Criminal Operation
Investigators noted the gang demonstrated military-style precision in their crimes:
“The criminals deployed a high degree of organisation and coordination,” stated the Policia Nacional report. “They used fake identities to rent vehicles, conducted reconnaissance of targets, and executed rapid snatch-and-grab operations.”
According to eyewitness accounts, one assailant would violently remove watches – sometimes against physical resistance – while accomplices waited in stolen hire cars for immediate escape.
International Police Cooperation
The Balearic Islands Specialized Violent Crime Unit traced the suspects through forensic evidence and cross-border databases. European Arrest Warrants led to the UK detentions, though authorities haven’t disclosed the defendants’ nationalities or ages pending ongoing judicial proceedings.
This case highlights increasing collaboration between Spanish and British authorities against transnational crime. Luxury watch thefts have risen 28% in Mediterranean tourist destinations since 2022 according to Europol’s latest organized crime assessment.
Tourist Safety Advisory
Local police recommend visitors to high-end tourist areas:
- Register luxury items with hotel safes
- Avoid displaying expensive accessories in crowded areas
- Immediately report suspicious behavior to local authorities
The Policia Nacional continues investigating the criminal network’s international connections and methods of fencing stolen luxury goods. Victims are encouraged to contact specialist officers through official police channels.
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