Portugal's GNR police force detained four men suspected of stealing wallets and mobile phones from people leaving nightlife venues in Albufeira, in the Faro district, the force announced on Monday.
The suspects, aged between 40 and 47, were arrested on Sunday while traveling on the IP2 highway near Beja, as part of an investigation into a theft that occurred in Albufeira, the GNR said in a statement.
Vehicle intercepted on the IP2
Investigators located and intercepted the suspects' vehicle on the IP2, dozens of kilometres from Albufeira, the GNR said. During the operation, officers recovered 29 mobile phones.
The GNR said there is strong evidence the suspects were behind several pickpocketing thefts committed mainly in Albufeira's nightlife areas, taking advantage of moments when crowds were largest, particularly as people left entertainment venues.
Victims urged to come forward
The GNR said the stolen items included mobile phones and other belongings, and it appealed to potential victims to contact its Albufeira detachment.
The force clarified that people who had a mobile phone stolen in Albufeira's nightlife district and have not yet recovered the device should get in touch. This would allow the GNR to identify the devices and return the seized equipment to its rightful owners more quickly, the force said.
