Croatian police have uncovered a suspected beach theft operation that targeted tourists along the Adriatic coast, with a 49 year old man and a 52 year old woman accused of carrying out dozens of thefts in Istria and the Crikvenica area. The investigation was completed by police in Umag in cooperation with criminal police officers and police stations in Poreč, Pula and Crikvenica. Investigators believe the pair operated between July 12 and August 26, repeatedly targeting people who left their belongings unattended while enjoying the beaches. The case highlights one of the common risks faced by tourists during the busy summer season, when crowded beaches can provide opportunities for thieves.
According to investigators, the 49 year old man is suspected of being involved in 20 criminal offenses, while the 52 year old woman allegedly participated in 16 of them. The suspected thefts were spread across several popular tourist areas. Ten incidents were recorded in the area covered by the Umag police station, including Buje, while four occurred around Poreč and another took place in Pula. Five additional thefts were reported in the area of Crikvenica. Police say the suspects primarily targeted belongings left on beaches, suggesting that they repeatedly took advantage of tourists who were in the water or away from their bags.
The stolen property included backpacks, handbags and waist bags containing cash, car keys, mobile phones, bank cards, personal documents, electronic devices, sunglasses and other valuables. Police say the majority of the victims were foreign nationals, which is particularly significant given the large number of international tourists visiting the Croatian coast during the summer. The total value of the stolen items is estimated at several tens of thousands of euros. The range of stolen belongings also means that victims could face consequences beyond the immediate financial loss, particularly when important documents, car keys or payment cards are taken while they are away from home.
Following the completion of the criminal investigation, the two suspects were taken into custody on Tuesday morning and placed in the detention unit of the Istria Police Department. A criminal complaint is being submitted to the competent state attorney’s office, where the case will continue through the legal process. The investigation provides another reminder for tourists to avoid leaving valuable belongings unattended on beaches, particularly in crowded areas. With the Croatian coast attracting millions of visitors during the summer, police operations targeting organized or repeated beach thefts remain an important part of protecting tourists and their property.
