Bag stolen in Barcelona, police won't sign the report - ideas needed

[WhatNoWay]

Hi all, daughter (19 yo) has had her backpack stolen at Barcelona airport while waiting for the train on the platform. She called the police who said to fill in an online stolen property report and then to come in and have it signed. However, when she turned up at the police station, they were very unhelpful, said 'you can't just turn up and expect things signed for you just like that' also pointed out that she doesn't speak Spanish. When she asked what she needs to do and how she can have it signed, they didn't answer. Anyone understand Spanish police culture? What do they want, money? Any advice really appreciated, daughter is quite distressed and I've no idea what to recommend.

This might help https://www.gov.uk/world/spain

(To contact consulate for advice)

Can you say how she is affected? For example is her passport gone? Does she have money/cards?
if it’s clothing only was there enough to warrant an insurance claim?

I am not sure the above UK gov link helps (doesn’t seem to cover her situation) but if she has no passport or money then British Embassy would be my first call. I have no experience of police in Spain but what she has had stolen would guide my next action.

DS had his phone stolen there, he never got the slip signed as it was taking too long and his flight was leaving in a few hours. We just replaced it.

Thank you! Thankfully all valuables and document were in a little separate shoulder bag.

When was was pickpocketed on the underground in Barca, the rail staff were sympathetic until I mentioned the police. Faced clouded over, mumbling about ‘what do you mean the police?’. It was a pain in the arse, I really feel for your daughter and hope it doesn’t ruin the trip.

Hi OP , sorry to read that.
Barcelona is notorious for bag theft.

I live in Spain and in my city we cannot just turn up at the police station and make a report. I know it sounds crazy and it is...but you have to make an appointment. Serious crime will be dealt with straight away, but reporting a snatched bag won't fall into that category unfortunately.

I would imagine that this need for an appointment is what they were trying to convey...and I have to say they are not always the most pleasant people to deal with.

She could just go back and ask for an appointment or " cita previa" .

Admittedly this was about 8 years ago now. I had my mobile phone stolen. I went to the police station at les rambalas filed a report and they gave me a copy. No big issue at all.

@beetlebugslife , that's very helpful, thank you! I'll tell her.