High end goods targeted by shoplifting gang

SERRANO ham and smoked salmon were among the high-value items a gang of shoplifters were caught stealing from supermarkets in Calpe at the end of last week. The three accused were unaware they were under surveillance by the Guardia Civil, who observed them going from various outlets to a waiting car, unloading goods. When they were stopped and searched the Guardia found a bag with a hidden pocket that had expensive goods in it such as ham, salmon and perfumes. There were other items hidden in the car to the value of about €600. Three people, two men and a woman aged 37,31 and 18 have been charged with theft and membership of a criminal gang. Organised gangs such as this often purchase a handful of cheap goods and then pass through the checkout, hiding the more valuable items in specially adapted clothing or shopping bags.