Four detained in Skopje robberies that left two elderly dead — unofficial confessions reported
Ministry of Interior says four suspects were detained on October 27; prosecutors have not confirmed alleged confessions.
New details have surfaced in the investigations into two fatal robberies in Skopje’s Chrom and Gjorgje Petrov neighbourhoods, after which two elderly people died within five days. Authorities continue to investigate whether the incidents are connected and who played what role in the crimes.
According to unofficial reports circulating in some outlets, four people taken into custody have allegedly given statements admitting involvement in the offences. Prosecutors have not publicly verified those claims, so it remains unclear whether the accounts are formal confessions and what exactly they contain.
The Ministry of Interior previously reported that on October 27 four people were detained: A.S. (22), H.E. (20) and K.A. (58), all from Skopje, and M.R. (26) from Strumica. They are suspected in the probe into robberies that resulted in deaths.
Key questions for investigators
The first crime was discovered on October 22, when the body of 62-year-old S.J. was found in his family home in the Chrom neighbourhood; visible signs of violence raised immediate concerns about a violent death. Five days later, on October 27, the body of 76-year-old O.A. was found at a house on Gjurchin Kokale street in the Gjorgje Petrov area; her daughter reported the discovery.
Investigators say there are some similarities in the way the two robberies were carried out, and one line of inquiry under examination is whether the motive was the unlawful taking of money or other valuables. For now there is no official confirmation of motive, whether the victims were targeted in advance, or whether both incidents followed a prearranged plan.
The Basic Public Prosecutor's Office Skopje has requested short-term detention for the four suspects to allow investigators to complete evidence gathering and other necessary actions. Material evidence, forensic results, suspect statements and witness testimony will be central to reconstructing movements and actions in the critical moments.
Authorities must also establish the individual role of each suspect, determine who was present at each scene if the reports that three were direct perpetrators are confirmed, and whether the fourth person assisted or helped organise the acts. The investigation is ongoing and final determinations, including any criminal liability, will depend on the evidence and the judicial process.
Photo: press material from the event
