Two Georgian Men Arrested in Andorra Chalet Break-In, Probed for Other Thefts

Police specialists investigating property crimes are examining whether two Georgian men arrested early Monday in Andorra la Vella bear responsibility for any of the five other break-ins reported across the country since May 1.

The suspects, aged 27 and 32, were caught hiding inside a chalet near Avinguda Santa Coloma after triggering its alarm. A private security guard alerted police, who dispatched patrols to the scene between the city centre and the avenue. Officers found the men inside the property, which had not been regularly occupied for nearly two decades. They had gained entry by breaking a window—possibly using an axe discovered nearby—and had rummaged through wardrobes and a chest of drawers. One suspect carried a balaclava and several allegedly stolen items in his jacket.

Both men, recent legal residents working in construction—one based in Pas de la Casa, the other in Sant Julià de Lòria—had not renewed their initial work and residence permits. They showed signs of alcohol intoxication upon arrest and offered little explanation. Police transferred their case to the Batllia that afternoon. By shortly before 7pm Monday, a judge ordered them held in pre-trial detention at the penitentiary, charged with forcible theft. No prior records exist for them in Andorra.

Authorities consider the pair linked only to this incident so far, as the six break-ins—including the Monday case—feature varied methods at sites such as Andorra la Vella, Les Escaldes, Encamp, La Massana and Escàs. One prior case in an upscale Escàs residence saw thieves force a door during the day and take an entire safe containing jewellery worth at least €6,000. Investigators note distinct patterns: some crude entries like Monday's, others targeting safes or executed quietly. They continue comparing evidence to rule out connections while monitoring for further incidents. Only one of the previous break-ins has been fully resolved.