Police Arrest Couple Who Scammed Elderly by Obtaining PINs from Their Cards in Alicante Supermarkets

They were caught as they left a supermarket, their hunting ground. Their victims were elderly individuals making purchases over 50 euros. They observed the PIN numbers of the cards, stole wallets, and made withdrawals and fraudulent purchases. They defrauded a total of 10,853 euros from five victims, aged between 64 and 88. The National Police set up an operation and caught the couple, a 31-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman, both Romanian nationals, according to the investigation.

The investigation began after a series of thefts were detected in the municipalities of Alzira, Benidorm, Dénia, and the city of Alicante. In all cases, the perpetrators selected their victims in supermarkets and large stores, paying special attention to older individuals making substantial purchases.

According to investigators, the couple acted professionally. They positioned themselves near their targets to observe the PIN number being entered, without arousing suspicion. Once the secret number was memorised, they followed their 'prey' and, through distraction, stole the wallet. With the PIN and bank card in hand, they made cash withdrawals at ATMs and purchased gift cards or high-value products in various stores. Additionally, they used rental vehicles to make identification and location more difficult.

Despite all attempts to avoid detection, the National Police arrested them as they hurriedly left a shopping centre in Dénia. Both have been brought before the local Alicante Magistrate's Court. The investigation remains open to determine if they are involved in other similar incidents.

At the time of arrest, they carried a recently stolen bank card, nearly 1,000 euros in cash, multiple gift cards, and several clothing items used to avoid identification by security cameras or witnesses. Neither of the detainees had a criminal record, according to the Alicante Provincial Police Station.

Investigators determined that the arrested individuals acted with skill and coordination, entering shops in broad daylight, occasionally separating to avoid suspicion, and choosing particularly vulnerable victims. They discreetly and effectively observed the PIN, even guiding themselves by finger movements.

Additionally, they urge victims of such crimes to immediately inform their families and the National Police. Citizen collaboration is crucial to prevent these crimes and protect the most vulnerable groups.