The Guardia Civil has arrested the alleged four members of a gang specialising in robbing tourists on the beaches of Cala d’Or (Santanyí). The investigation began following several thefts in the area, which led investigators to suspect that it was the work of a travelling gang.
According to the Guardia Civil Command in the Balearics, they committed the thefts while tourists were distracted on the beach and then fled the scene in rental cars. Once the suspects had been identified, the officers partially closed off the area where they usually committed the thefts and carried out various checks with the aim of intercepting them.
As a result of this operation, they stopped a vehicle in Campos in which the four suspects, three men and a woman, were travelling, carrying numerous items allegedly stolen that same day and on previous days. In total, the officers recovered 17 mobile phones, most of them high-end models, which had been covered with a special material to prevent them from emitting signals and being geolocated. A large number of sunglasses from well-known luxury brands, bank cards, handbags and 750 euros in cash were also recovered.
The four suspects were arrested for robbery and the judicial authorities issued a restraining order against them, prohibiting them from approaching several beaches near Cala d’Or. The Guardia Civil has recommended not taking unnecessary valuables to the beach, keeping belongings in sight at all times, taking turns when swimming and using discreet backpacks that do not attract attention to avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime.
To keep your beach belongings safe, prioritise smart strategies like using waterproof pouches or dry bags for valuables, securing items with a lockable beach safe or by tying them to your chair, and choosing a visible spot near others or lifeguards. Consider burying valuables in a sealed bag under your towel as a last resort, but be mindful of visibility and potential for theft.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of safety tips:
1. Use Waterproof Gear:
Dry Bags/Pouches:
Invest in a waterproof dry bag or pouch to protect your phone, wallet, keys, and other valuables from water damage.
Waterproof Cases:
Consider waterproof phone cases for added protection during swimming or water activities.
2. Secure Your Belongings:
Lockable Beach Safe:
Portable lockable safes can be secured to beach furniture or buried in the sand. Locking Bags:
Some bags have built-in locks or can be secured to beach chairs with a lock or by tying the straps securely.
Hidden Compartments:
Utilize beach bags with hidden compartments or creatively disguise valuables within common items like sunscreen bottles or drink containers.
3. Choose Your Spot Wisely:
Visibility:
Opt for a spot near other people, especially families or groups, to deter potential thieves.
Proximity to Lifeguards:
Staying near lifeguard stands can also deter theft due to increased visibility and attention.
Consider Solo Travelers:
Ask other solo travelers if they can keep an eye on your belongings while you swim, and offer to do the same for them.
4. Minimise What You Bring:
Only Essentials:
Only bring what you absolutely need to reduce the risk of theft and make it easier to manage your belongings.
Leave Valuables at Home:
If possible, leave expensive items like jewelry or large amounts of cash at your accommodation.
5. Be Mindful of Your Actions:
Don’t Advertise:
Avoid displaying expensive items or making it obvious that you have valuables with you.
Be Observant:
Keep an eye on your belongings when possible, and be aware of your surroundings.
Burying:
If burying belongings, do so discreetly, mark the location, and be aware that someone might have seen you.