Burglary gang busted in Palma: Disguise, master keys, and remand in custody

Raid in Palma: Four suspects in custody

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In the early hours of what was an ordinarily gray Tuesday, the police in Palma took a gang of apartment burglars off the streets. It sounds like something from a crime series, but it was solid investigative work: the group allegedly posed as tradespeople or food couriers to gain access to apartments.

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How the perpetrators operated

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According to investigators, the suspects used specially crafted keys and tools that opened doors without leaving visible signs of a break-in. Several residents reported that around 6:15 a.m. a white delivery van parked near the Avinguda Jaume III — not an unusual sight here, and that is exactly what the perpetrators counted on: inconspicuous, friendly, almost professional.

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Not a Hollywood plot; it was plan and routine, said a police officer on the scene. The investigations led to searches in several apartments; the officers found cash totaling nearly €10,000, various pieces of jewelry, and several counterfeit keys.

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Arrests and current investigative status

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In total seven people were arrested, four of whom are now in custody. The suspects are charged with numerous burglaries. The police are checking connections to other cases on the island and securing traces, including digital evidence and surveillance footage.

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For those affected, the uncertainty remains. A resident from the Plaça Weyler neighborhood recounted hearing two unusual doorbell sounds at night and learning the next day of the arrest: You suddenly feel much more observed than usual.

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Tips and outlook

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The authorities urge caution: use door viewers, ask for IDs from unannounced tradespeople, and if in doubt confirm the identity with the company by phone. At the moment, the investigations focus on collecting traces and the question of how large the network really was.

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For Palma, the raid means relief for some and mistrust for others. The coming weeks will show whether the investigators will catch all the masterminds — or whether more surprises will follow.