The National Police have arrested a man who struck two young tourists with a bike lock in Playa de Palma after they refused to hire sexual services.
National Police agents arrested a man in the early hours of last Thursday, July 16, who allegedly assaulted two tourists with a python-type bike lock in Playa de Palma. The young people had rejected the services of several prostitutes who, according to the investigation, were working under the control of the arrested man.
Assault following refusal to hire sexual services
The events occurred around four in the morning on a street in the tourist area. The victims, two tourists whose identities have not been disclosed, were approached by women who allegedly engaged in prostitution in public. According to the police report, the women performed sexual touches on the young men while offering their services.
When they refused to accompany them and tried to leave, the now-detained man, who apparently acted as a pimp, appeared. The man demanded that they hire the services and, upon their refusal, pulled out a belt and the padlock with which he began to strike them repeatedly. The women fled the scene after the incident.
The two tourists managed to break free and ran away, visibly frightened. Shortly after, they encountered a patrol of the National Police that was nearby and asked for help. The agents collected descriptions of the assailant and the weapon used.
Arrest of the suspect and care for the victims
Once alerted, the agents began a search of the area. They found the suspect on a nearby street, still carrying the belt and the padlock that matched the descriptions given by the victims. The man was immediately arrested as the alleged perpetrator of the crimes of assault and, possibly, coercion and crimes related to prostitution.
The tourists had to be taken to a medical centre for treatment of their injuries. Although the National Police have not detailed the severity of the wounds, sources from the investigation indicate that they suffered bruises and cuts caused by the blows. The detainee, who has already been brought before a judge, could face prison sentences if the charges are confirmed.
The arrested man was located while still carrying the padlock and the belt used in the assault, according to the National Police.
Judicial investigation and background in the area
After his arrest, the man has been brought before a judge. The investigation remains open to clarify all the details of the case and determine if there are more individuals involved. The National Police are keeping the case under secrecy at this stage of the proceedings, which is the phase of the criminal process in which the judge investigates the facts.
The area of Playa de Palma has previously been the scene of incidents related to the control of street prostitution. However, the police have not yet linked this incident to any organised network, although all lines of investigation remain open. Meanwhile, the tourists are recovering from their injuries in a hospital on the island.
Local residents have expressed their concern about safety in the tourist area, although the National Police have increased their presence in the area to prevent further incidents. Tourists are advised to contact the authorities immediately in any similar situation.
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