Barcelona police have arrested eight repeat offenders in a targeted operation against violent chain robberies in Ciutat Vella, Eixample and Sant Martí. The Mossos d'Esquadra carried out the “Kanpai Càtena” operation last Thursday, between 14:00 and 23:00, as part of their wider “Plan Kanpai” against repeat offending.
According to police sources quoted by EFE, the operation focused on areas known for this type of crime. The eight people arrested had 141 prior arrests between them, and police said the aim was to disrupt the groups behind street-level theft.
Officers also reported four other people who had 105 prior arrests between them. During the nine-hour operation, police identified 52 people with a combined 661 prior arrests.
Ciutat Vella, which includes busy tourist areas and many homes, is one of the districts where street crime is often a concern. Eixample and Sant Martí were also included in the police deployment. For more local coverage, see our Community and Sport pages.
“Plan Kanpai” is aimed at people who repeatedly commit crimes, with the goal of reducing their impact on public safety. Chain robberies usually involve thieves forcibly snatching necklaces or other jewellery from victims, and can leave people injured.
Authorities say they will keep monitoring higher-risk areas and carrying out preventative operations in Barcelona’s busiest neighbourhoods. The original report was published by El Periódico Barcelona.
