Lorraine Williamson
The Guardia Civil has arrested two men in connection with an armed robbery that shook the quiet town of Murillo de Río Leza, La Rioja.
The incident, which took place on 21 October 2024, saw one of the assailants threaten staff with a firearm before being confronted by the shop owner in a tense struggle that ultimately forced the robbers to flee empty-handed.
Robbery turns chaotic after owner intervenes
It was just after 8.00 pm when a masked man stormed into the local tobacconist, waving a gun and shouting for cash. Terrified, the shop assistant opened the till as the intruder demanded money. But before he could make off with the takings, the owner appeared from a back room and tackled him. In the scuffle, the assailant’s cap and mask were ripped away, revealing his face. Losing control of the situation, he dropped the stolen cash and bolted from the shop, sprinting towards a waiting getaway car driven by his accomplice.
A calculated crime with a violent edge
Investigators from the Guardia Civil’s Judicial Police unit quickly launched Operation Shoro, piecing together evidence from the scene and statements from witnesses. What emerged was a picture of a carefully planned crime. The robbers had chosen a quiet moment just before closing time, arriving masked and gloved to minimise the risk of leaving traces. Their use of a firearm was intended both to intimidate and to ensure rapid compliance.
Burned-out getaway car leads to key evidence
A few hours after the robbery, police discovered the getaway car abandoned and burned on the outskirts of Logroño. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, and forensic teams recovered several objects nearby—including a keyring—that proved vital to the case. The car itself had been stolen in Logroño days earlier, confirming the robbers’ attempts to cover their tracks.
Months-long investigation brings arrests
Over several months, the Guardia Civil’s property crimes division analysed evidence, cross-referenced known offenders, and tracked criminal patterns. Their meticulous work led to the clear identification of the two men behind the robbery. Coordinated raids were then carried out simultaneously in Logroño and Entrena, resulting in both suspects being arrested without resistance.
Long criminal records revealed
Both detainees are described as habitual offenders with lengthy criminal records. Their backgrounds include previous convictions for violent and forceful robberies, theft, and other serious offences. They now face charges of robbery with violence and intimidation, vehicle theft, and arson.
The Guardia Civil confirmed that the case remains open as investigators explore whether additional individuals played a supporting role. However, with the two primary suspects now in custody, authorities believe they have dismantled the core of a small but dangerous criminal network operating in the region.