Two thieves conned victims out of their wallets in Estepona

Spanish National Police have thankfully arrested two men in Estepona for a string of thefts carried out using the classic *“la mancha”* (“the stain”) distraction technique, a method that primarily targeted elderly residents and foreign visitors.

How the  stain method scam works

The thieves would secretly splash a liquid onto a victim’s clothing. Moments later, one of them would approach with apparent concern, offering to help clean the stain using tissues. During this brief distraction and close contact, the victim’s wallet or valuables were stolen with practiced ease. Police say both suspects, aged 58 and 52 are specialists in this method and have extensive criminal records, with one holding over 100 prior police entries for property crimes.

Investigation and identification of the suspects

The UDEV Patrimonio unit at Estepona’s local police station opened an investigation after a surge in similar complaints. Officers, already familiar with this type of deception, were able to identify one suspect thanks to victim cooperation.

Police established that the pair deliberately selected vulnerable targets, typically older people or foreigners who might struggle with the language, and repeated the same manoeuvre in each case.

Hire cars and arrests

To avoid detection, the men used rental cars to move around Estepona and other different parts of Malaga. Officers intercepted them just as they were allegedly preparing to approach new victims. A search of their vehicle uncovered packets of tissues used in the scam and hats and caps worn to disguise themselves.

Both suspects have been charged with eight counts of theft and four counts of fraud, and were placed at the disposal of judicial authorities.

If you are unfortunately the victim of pickpocketing on the Costa del Sol, report it immediately to the Policia Nacional, block your cards and phone, and use the police report to replace documents or claim insurance.