SEOUL - A group of three Russian nationals have been detained and referred to prosecution by Seoul police on charges of pickpocketing in the city's subway system. The arrests were made following multiple incidents this month, with the suspects accused of stealing wallets from unsuspecting passengers.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the trio is believed to have targeted passengers on Seoul's Subway Line No. 9 between November 3 and 4, and again the following week, stealing cash and gift cards totaling approximately 394,000 won. The suspects reportedly worked in coordination, with one blocking the victim's path, another obstructing the view of bystanders, and a third snatching the wallet.
The group had entered South Korea on November 1 with the alleged intention of committing these crimes, planning to leave for Russia within 15 days. Their apprehension was facilitated by security camera footage, leading to their arrest at Myeongdong Station. Upon arrest, police confiscated three cell phones, cash, and gift certificates from the suspects.
Despite their denial of the allegations, claiming they were in South Korea for tourism and shopping, police challenged their statements, citing extensive subway riding history since their arrival. The investigation is ongoing, with police analyzing digital evidence from the suspects' cell phones.