In L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Mossos d'Esquadra officers arrested a 22-year-old man on 29 May in connection with four violent robberies. Police said the case was later reported in a statement released on Sunday.
The investigation began after officers detected a rise in street assaults with a similar pattern in the Santa Eulàlia neighbourhood. According to the police, the suspect used an electric scooter to travel on the pavement, approach victims from behind and snatch chains from their necks.
Police said the man is accused of two completed violent robberies, two attempted violent robberies and three minor assault offences. They also said he was linked to a series of chain snatchings.
The Mossos d'Esquadra said the suspect mainly targeted elderly women. Three victims suffered minor injuries during the struggle to steal their jewellery.
Officers identified the man as a priority because of his level of criminal activity in the area. After his arrest, he was handed over to the duty investigating court. For more Catalonia news, see News.
