An attempted robbery involving a luxury wristwatch ended in swift justice on Thursday night in Ibiza Town (Eivissa), after alert bystanders intervened to stop the suspect fleeing the scene. The would-be thief, a 30-year-old Italian national, has now been arrested and faces charges of violent robbery and assault.
The incident took place around 10:45 p.m. in a popular pedestrian area near the Passeig de Vara de Rey, a central square frequented by tourists and nightlife-goers. The victim, a male tourist reportedly staying at a nearby boutique hotel, was walking with his partner when the suspect approached suddenly and attempted to snatch the high-value watch directly from his wrist.
The watch—believed to be a Swiss timepiece worth over €20,000—was partially unfastened during the struggle. The thief used physical force, pushing the victim to the ground, which resulted in minor abrasions. Several onlookers, witnessing the altercation, quickly moved to assist and managed to restrain the assailant while another bystander called the Policía Nacional.
According to eyewitnesses, the group held the suspect down for several minutes until officers arrived. Police confirmed that the man had no fixed address in Ibiza and had entered the island just days earlier. He was carrying a small toolkit and gloves, suggesting possible involvement in other thefts or premeditated targeting of tourists known to wear high-end accessories.
The watch was recovered at the scene, slightly damaged but intact. The victim was treated for superficial injuries and later gave a full statement at the police station.
This latest incident highlights a growing trend in opportunistic thefts targeting wealthy holidaymakers, particularly in Ibiza and parts of the Costa del Sol. Police have increased patrols in tourist hotspots and are urging visitors to exercise caution, especially when displaying expensive items such as watches, jewellery, and mobile phones.
A spokesperson for the Policía Nacional in Ibiza praised the actions of the bystanders, stating:
“Their intervention was both brave and measured. Thanks to their quick thinking, a violent criminal was stopped, and a serious theft was prevented.”
The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to appear before a judge within 48 hours. Authorities are also examining CCTV footage from the surrounding area to determine whether the man was acting alone or as part of a broader network of organised petty crime.
No Comment! Be the first one.