The operation, named ‘Higia 36’, culminated in the arrest of five individuals in Seseña, who are accused of belonging to a criminal organization and ten counts of distraction theft. All those arrested had previous records for similar offenses.

Investigations began after an increase in property crimes and distraction thefts was detected between February and March. Incidents were reported in pharmacies and supermarkets in Seseña and Esquivias, in Toledo province, as well as in the Madrid locality of Torres de la Alameda.

Analysis of the data collected by agents revealed a common modus operandi in the robberies. The gang operated in an organized manner, with a clear division of roles: while some members distracted employees, others took advantage to steal high-value products from the shelves.

The swift intervention by authorities, which occurred on April 16, helped limit the total value of the stolen products to approximately 2,000 euros.