On July 24, 2026, police officers from the Bitola Police Department arrested G.Z. (35) and A.J. (29), both from Bitola, on suspicion of committing an aggravated theft earlier that day.
According to the police, the suspects broke into a supermarket on "Sever-Jug" Street in Bitola and stole approximately 30 cartons of various cigarette brands. During a search of the residence they had been using, officers recovered the stolen items, which were returned to their owner.
Further investigation revealed that G.Z. was wanted under a nationwide warrant after escaping from the Prilep Correctional Facility, where he had been serving a prison sentence. He was returned to the prison to continue serving his eight-month sentence.
Following the completion of the investigation, appropriate criminal charges will be filed.