Daniel Sirera, President of the People’s Party (PP) in Barcelona City Council, has called for all Guardia Urbana patrols to be equipped with Taser stun guns. He made the demand on Saturday during a PP Madrid conference on security, criticising the current city administration’s approach to public safety.

PP Criticises Barcelona’s Security Policies

Mr Sirera stated that blocking the use of these devices was “ideological sectarianism.” He added, “These tools protect agents and are deterrents.” The PP leader accused Mayor Jaume Collboni of presiding over a city that has become “an example of lack of control, permissiveness, and political failure.” This statement came from a communiqué issued by PP Barcelona.

Alarming Crime Statistics Cited

Sirera highlighted what he termed “unacceptable figures for any major European city.” He reported 464 crimes daily, alongside 281 daily robberies and thefts. Additionally, he cited four sexual assaults and one rape occurring each day. The PP president also mentioned 36 municipal buildings currently occupied by squatters. Furthermore, he noted the removal of 250,000 syringes from public spaces over the past five years. Sirera believes that “ideological policies” have weakened the principle of authority for years. He argued these policies have prioritised squatters over property owners and criminals over law enforcement officers. Barcelona, a city with over 1.6 million residents, relies on its Guardia Urbana for local policing and maintaining public order.

Demands for Enhanced Police Resources

Consequently, Mr Sirera demanded more police for Barcelona. He called for officers to be better equipped and protected, with increased political support from the city council. He also called for enhanced police coordination between the Guardia Urbana and the Mossos d’Esquadra, Catalonia’s regional police force. This coordination should include shared information and joint operations to improve effectiveness. Finally, he urged an urgent plan featuring more personnel, resources, video surveillance, greater police presence in neighbourhoods, and coordination across all security bodies. This comprehensive proposal highlights ongoing debates about public safety and policing strategies in the city, impacting both residents and visitors.

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Originally published by Europa Press Barcelona. Read original article.