A 21-year-old man has been remanded in custody after allegedly terrorising shopkeepers and residents in Torrevieja through violent robberies, threats, extortion and vehicle theft.
The Civil Guard arrested the young man as part of an ongoing investigation into what officers believe was a campaign of intimidation aimed mainly at local businesses and residents in Torrevieja and nearby towns.
He is suspected of robbery with violence and intimidation, extortion and vehicle theft. After appearing before the duty court in Torrevieja, a judge ordered his provisional imprisonment while the investigation continues.
The operation forms part of the Civil Guard’s Safe Commerce Plan, launched to protect traders and strengthen cooperation with the business community.
Investigators say they uncovered a disturbing climate of fear among potential victims and witnesses, many of whom were initially too frightened to come forward. Officers believe several people were reluctant to report the alleged crimes because they feared reprisals against themselves, their families or their businesses.
To break that silence, the Civil Guard increased its presence in the area and held direct meetings with local business owners. That approach eventually helped build enough confidence for victims to begin cooperating with investigators.
According to the complaints gathered, the suspect allegedly approached managers of several establishments and offered them “protection” in exchange for regular payments. The demands were reportedly accompanied by threatening messages and claims of links to Eastern European criminal organisations, allegedly used to pile pressure on victims.
One of the incidents under investigation happened on April 4, when the suspect allegedly entered a commercial premises and demanded products without paying. During the robbery, he is accused of intimidating an employee, stealing the day’s takings and leaving after making threats intended to stop staff from calling police.
Officers also investigated a second incident on April 19, when the same man allegedly stole a vehicle after intimidating its owner. He later allegedly demanded money from the victim in exchange for returning the vehicle.
After analysing evidence and taking numerous witness statements, Civil Guard officers identified and arrested the 21-year-old suspect.
He was placed at the disposal of the Court of First Instance and Instruction in Torrevieja, which ordered him to be remanded in custody.
The investigation remains open, and officers have not ruled out further arrests or the possible involvement of other individuals.
The Civil Guard has urged anyone affected by threats, coercion or extortion to report it, stressing that the Safe Commerce Plan remains active to protect local businesses and residents.
