Crime on the Costa del Sol, July 2008

We are very reluctant to bring this page back but due to the apparent increase in crimes against the person in this area of the costa we have been persuaded by victims and friends of victims to raise awareness of the issues.

Businesses Break In

“Glitterati Bookshop” in Estepona was broken into in the early hours of June 5th. Fortunately, due to state of the art installed security, nothing was stolen but a large amount of damage was done to the shop doors. The shop’s owner, Beverley, was deeply dismayed by this episode and would like to warn other businesses to be ever vigilant and aware that opportunist intruders are in our area. Repairs have been quickly attended to and Glitterati Bookshop and Café is back in business.

Handbag Snatch from Shopping Trolley

This offence occurred in Lidls at Calahonda on Saturday 31st May at lunch time but could easily happen in any supermarket. A lady put her handbag on the child’s seat of the shopping trolley for just a few seconds whilst she used both hands to reach into a freezer cabinet. Within that time her bag was taken. Do not leave your handbag unattended for even a second. (Name and address supplied)

Sneak In Domestic Theft

This offence occurred in Duquesa port about 4am on the 10th June. The owner of an apartment was woken by flashing lights and found a dark clothed male in his lounge. The intruder made his escape over the balcony into the plaza below. The victim discovered a PC keyboard and monitor stolen and that a search had been made of drawers and cupboards. (Victim’s name known)

ATM Thefts

We have been told that this hoary old favourite is being practised again. If your card is not returned from the slot of an ATM machine then check first to make sure there is no piece of filmstrip or similar glued to the top and bottom of the slot. If there is then pull it out, retrieve your card and report the matter to the bank. Hold the filmstrip by its edges there may be the thief’s fingerprints on it. If you are approached by a ‘concerned citizen’ whilst your card is stuck, under no circumstances be persuaded to cancel the existing transaction and re-enter your PIN number or you may lose more than your card.

Distraction Thefts

Here are three types of reported incidents that serve to show how these offences occur. They happened in early June.

A couple left Mercadona in Sabinillas with shopping in their trolley. Their car was parked on the road at the front of the store. As the man went to his car a male described as ‘scruffy looking’ approached him and said something unintelligible. As the man turned, a second male approached him from the rear. Fortunately at this stage the man realised something was not right. The Guardia arrived at this point and an officer spoke to the first scruffy individual whilst the second disappeared. (Informant’s name known)

The second type of distraction has occurred at ATM machines in Duquesa and Sabinillas. After withdrawing money from the machines the victim is approached by a ‘concerned member of the public’ who tells them there is a mark on their back and proceeds to dust the victim down at the same time relieving them of a purse or wallet. (Informant’s name known)

A small group of ladies and men were walking down the top road at Duquesa about 2.30am one morning in early June when a couple of males pushed past. One of the ladies had her handbag over her shoulder. Whilst pushing through the group, one male cut the handbag strap and ran off. The males were described as Moroccan looking.(Victim’s name supplied)

Duplicate Keys

It seems that some sneak in thefts have been through locked doors using a duplicate key. It may seem obvious but if you move into a new property the keys you receive may not be the only copies. Similarly, if you move into rented accommodation you have no idea who else may have a key.

English Speaking Crime Report Line

To report a crime to helpful, English speaking police officers ring: 902 102 112.