Two Women Arrested in La Paz for Minibus Thefts, Defied House Arrest

La Paz, Bolivia – Police in La Paz have apprehended two women, identified as members of the notorious "Quevedo clan," who were reportedly engaged in a deceptive scheme to rob individuals in minibuses and on the streets. The suspects, known as "lanceras," would allegedly throw coins or other small objects to distract their targets, primarily older adults, children, and adolescents, before stealing their personal belongings. According to police statements, the two women, aged approximately 40 to 50 years, possess extensive criminal records for offenses including robbery, aggravated robbery, and theft. Authorities revealed that both individuals were previously serving house arrest sentences, which they brazenly violated to continue their illicit activities. "These two individuals dedicated themselves to the theft of personal objects inside public service vehicles," a police official stated during a press briefing. "They would take advantage of moments when they would drop an object to steal the belongings of potential victims, in this case, older people, children, and adolescents, exploiting their distraction." Footage from the arrest shows the women being escorted by law enforcement officials. Police are now urging anyone who may have been a victim of these women to come forward and file a formal complaint with the anti-crime force to aid in ongoing investigations and ensure justice is served.