Couple of shoplifters caught with baby: parents in jail, emergency shelter for 1.5-year-old child (Lanaken)

A couple from Moldova has been in jail since last weekend after they were caught in theft in the Colruyt in Lanaken. Investigation showed that they had already committed more of these crimes in recent months. They always hid the loot in the pram. Their one and a half year old baby is currently in emergency care.

Last Friday, the couple, a 34-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman, were caught committing a theft in the supermarket. They had their baby with them. The loot was in the stroller.

The two were taken for questioning by the Lanaken/Maasmechelen police. When checking their car, the officers found more stolen property; mainly small electrical goods, cosmetics and cigarettes. Investigation showed that they were involved in several shoplifting incidents in recent months.

A search was carried out at their residence in Kinrooi. A large number of stolen goods were also found there. The couple’s used vehicle was seized.

The man and his girlfriend were interrogated by the Lanaken/Maasmechelen police. They were then brought before the investigating judge in Tongeren. The two were arrested and taken to Hasselt prison. The investigation is being continued by the investigation service of the Lanaken/Maasmechelen police.

An emergency solution was sought to accommodate the baby. In the meantime, social services are working to arrange more appropriate shelter.