Barcelona has tightened controls on knives over the past two years. A series of incidents raised concerns about what security councillor Albert Batlle called a growing ‘knife culture’ in the city.
The Guàrdia Urbana has deployed targeted controls in response. Most checks happen discreetly, though some high-profile operations took place during the past two Mercè festivals. Officers focus on areas with known problems.
The plan concentrates on conflict zones and areas linked to repeat offenders and youth gangs. Police have detected higher rates of small blade weapons in these locations. Therefore, they conduct both undercover and visible patrols.
According to the Guàrdia Urbana, the strategy combines prevention with enforcement. Officers aim to stop knife carrying before incidents occur. However, they also respond rapidly when weapons are found.
The initiative emerged after several stabbing incidents highlighted an alarming trend. Small-format blades became more common among certain groups. Consequently, city officials decided action was necessary.
The Incidències a l’R2 Sud association supports improved emergency protocols. They want better communication during crises, though this relates to transport rather than security matters specifically.
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