The National Police, together with Italy and Europol, has dismantled in Naples a 12-member gang specialized in stealing luxury watches from tourists in Marbella, Barcelona, and Ibiza. Those arrested are part of the Neapolitan criminal groups known as paranzas, which operate with violence in public spaces. The international operation totals 31 arrests in several European countries.
How watch geolocation facilitated the investigation 🕵️
Agents used techniques for analyzing movement patterns and geolocation of tracking devices integrated into some high-end watches. By cross-referencing data with Europol databases, they identified escape routes and points of sale in Naples. Technological collaboration between agencies allowed them to trace the stolen pieces from tourist areas to serial number modification workshops in Italy, where digital records were erased.
Watch insurance, more expensive than the watch itself 😅
Tourists sporting a Rolex on Marbella's Golden Mile already know that theft insurance costs them almost as much as tapas with ham. But with this network dismantled, they might be able to save on the annual premium. Of course, if they travel to Naples, it's better to leave the chronograph in the hotel safe. Or buy a digital Casio: less style, but more discretion and zero calls to Europol.