Timișoara police officer arrested for allegedly tipping off burglars

A police officer in Timișoara, Romania, faces pre-trial detention for 30 days after being arrested on suspicion of aiding a group of burglars. The officer is accused of providing crucial information to the ring, enabling them to select and track their targets effectively.

This arrest follows an investigation into multiple home break-ins in Timișoara and surrounding areas. Authorities estimate the total damage caused by the burglaries to be over 900,000 euros. Among the victims reportedly targeted by the group were Marilen Pirtea, rector of the West University of Timișoara, and Dr. Cristian Oancea, former manager of the "Victor Babeș" Infectious Diseases Hospital.

Investigators believe the group meticulously planned their operations. They allegedly used devices to disable alarms and surveillance systems and frequently changed vehicles to avoid identification. The probe also has links to a major heist at Timișoara's Post Office 1, where the estimated loss was around two million euros.

The officer's arrest came after authorities executed search warrants at his residence and the homes of suspected burglars on August 18th. During these searches, various sums of money and goods were seized, which investigators believe are linked to the crimes under investigation. The investigation is ongoing to fully ascertain the extent of the information provided by the officer and his contribution to the group's activities.