13 detained at Barcelona's Brunch Electronik Festival

Major police operation at music festival

Thirteen people were detained by the Mossos d'Esquadra during a targeted security operation at the Brunch Electronik Festival, held from 7 to 9 August at Parc del Fòrum in Barcelona. The regional police conducted the operation through its plainclothes FURA unit, supported by ARRO, ARTU and USC divisions. A total of 26,516 attendees were recorded at this year’s edition of the annual electronic music event. Officers recovered 74 mobile phones stolen by a group of seven individuals, all of whom were arrested on suspicion of theft.

Sexual assault and other offences

One attendee was arrested on suspicion of committing a sexual offence by inappropriate touching.

In addition to the theft ring, one man was detained for allegedly committing sexual assault by groping. Three others were held on suspicion of attempting to steal phones, one was fined for public order violations, and another was taken into custody due to an outstanding judicial warrant. Five further individuals were formally reported for petty theft.

What to do if your phone is stolen

The Mossos d'Esquadra advise anyone who has had their mobile phone stolen to file a report at any local police station as soon as possible. Victims should provide the device’s IMEI number if available, which can assist in tracking and recovery.

Primary sources: ${rpb.dspace.name}. Reported by Maria Pentinat, David Expósito J, Carla Stavraky, Carlos Manzano, ground.news, Cesc Maideu, catalannews.com, Anton Rosa.