Serbian fugitive arrested in Torrevieja after five years in hiding

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A Serbian fugitive, who had been on the run for over five years, was arrested by the Guardia Civil in Torrevieja, Alicante. The man, wanted under a European Arrest Warrant issued by Portugal, was living with his family and using sophisticated methods to avoid detection, including disguises and false identification.

The fugitive had been wanted since December 2018 and was also subject to an arrest warrant from Madrid’s Central Court. Guardia Civil officers launched “Operation Observador24” after receiving information in December 2023 about the man’s presence in Torrevieja. Despite his constant use of disguises such as hats and sunglasses, and his vigilant behaviour to avoid police detection, officers were able to track him down.

Arrest at a supermarket

After months of surveillance of several locations frequented by the fugitive, including homes and public places, he was arrested on 9 September in a Torrevieja supermarket. The man did not resist arrest, but officers discovered a Croatian identity card with a false name and his photograph among his belongings, leading to charges of document forgery in addition to his existing warrants.

Cogesa Expats

Criminal background and legal proceedings

The fugitive, known to police as a “butronero” (a term for someone skilled in breaking into buildings), has a history of crimes including robbery, document forgery, and involvement in organised crime. Following his arrest, he was brought before the Torrevieja court, which granted provisional release with cautionary measures. Despite his release, the investigation continues as authorities work to ensure justice is served.

Also read: US fugitive wanted for murder arrested in Segovia

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