Authorities have apprehended three individuals suspected of involvement in the theft of jewellery valued at over two million pounds in Wrotham. The arrests are linked to a criminal syndicate believed to be targeting travelling salespersons engaged in jewellery trade with stores nationwide.
The alleged theft occurred on Thursday, January 18, 2024, when the victim parked their vehicle at a petrol garage along London Road in Wrotham. It is reported that a bag containing high-value jewellery was stolen from the car.
West Kent CID is spearheading the investigation, and significant progress has been made. On Sunday, February 11, a man and a woman were detained in Lancashire following reports of suspicious behaviour involving another potential victim near Bolton. Subsequently, both suspects were transferred into the custody of Kent Police.
Identified as Edgar Ardila Ruiz, 36, and Monica Diaz, 43, both of no fixed address, the pair were charged with conspiracy to steal and theft from a motor vehicle. They appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, February 14, where they were remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings. Their next hearing is scheduled at Maidstone Crown Court on March 11.
Additionally, a third suspect, a 62-year-old man, was apprehended on Saturday, February 17. He has since been released on bail with specified conditions, pending further inquiries. The individual is required to return to a police station on May 17 for further questioning.
The arrests mark significant progress in the investigation into the high-value jewellery theft, which has raised concerns about the safety of travelling salespersons in the region. Authorities continue to urge vigilance and prompt reporting of any suspicious activities related to such criminal endeavours.
