A dramatic incident unfolded on Sunday night in Madrid’s Carabanchel district when a 24-year-old woman was kidnapped by a group who later demanded money, a gold chain, and a Rolex watch for her release.
The young woman was freed an hour later at a petrol station several kilometres from the scene of the kidnapping, according to a spokesperson from Madrid’s National Police Headquarters.
The events occurred on December 22nd at approximately 11:30pm near the bustling Vía Lusitana. A couple in their twenties, on their way to their car after a work shift, were ambushed by three people armed with a gun. The attackers arrived in a black Jaguar, posing as plain clothes police officers, complete with reflective vests and firearms.
The young man managed to escape on foot, but his girlfriend was forcibly taken into the vehicle. Unable to capture the fleeing man, the assailants used the woman’s phone to contact him, demanding a ransom. Their demands included a substantial sum of money, a Rolex watch, and a gold chain. The kidnappers attempted to arrange a meeting for the exchange, but this plan was ultimately abandoned.
An hour after the abduction, the young woman was released unharmed at a petrol station in Fuenlabrada, a suburb south of Madrid. According to initial reports, no ransom was paid.
Emergency medical responders attended to the woman on the scene and confirmed she had no injuries, negating the need for hospitalisation.
Investigation Underway
Both victims, who are Spanish nationals with no prior criminal records, work at a teahouse near the location of the incident. Police are now working to identify the kidnappers, reportedly of North African origin.
Investigators are exploring the fact that the perpetrators impersonated police officers during the assault. Witnesses have stated the attackers wore reflective vests, brandished firearms, and shouted commands while posing as law enforcement agents.
Authorities are also probing whether the victims had any prior connection to the kidnappers.
This brazen kidnapping highlights the need for heightened awareness and security, particularly in busy urban areas.
