The Judiciary Police (PJ) announced his morning, that a 42-year-old man has already been identified and arrested for the alleged crime of aggravated robbery, which occurred at the Caixa Geral de Depósitos bank branch located in Câmara de Lobos, last Friday.
According to the PJ, “following the investigation carried out, it was possible to identify the vehicle used in the robbery. The vehicle in question was located, and with the relevant collaboration of the PSP of Câmara de Lobos last night was found parked next to the suspect’s residence.”
At 07:00 this morning the suspect was intercepted by Judiciary Police officers and 208,000 of the 214,000 euros stolen was recovered as well as other evidence. The firearm used is believed to have been a fake, but as this has not yet been found no further speculations can be made.
Officers confirmed that the suspect showed no resistance while being arrested and does not have a criminal record.
The detainee will be presented to the competent judicial authorities.
Commenting on the situation, the President of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque said that he found the robbery strange and bizarre for several reasons.
“An armed robbery in the Region is a rare thing and, by the way, the robbery itself, the characteristics are suicidal. On the other hand, I also find it strange that the bank branch had so much money available.”
He went on to say that crime rates are “residual” in Madeira, “they are among the lowest in the country and will continue to be,” he stressed, adding that Madeira is a region with “great security conditions.”
However, he did admit that it is necessary to be attentive and have “control” over migration and that those who come here to work have accommodation and good working conditions. Control must be both national and regional.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
