Catalan police have arrested ten individuals and reported nine others in Barcelona for their alleged involvement in 115 graffiti incidents on public transport trains, causing damages exceeding €377,000. The arrests occurred on 16 April, targeting trains operated by Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC), Renfe, and Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB).
The investigation by the Mossos d'Esquadra, Catalonia's police force, began after repeated large-scale graffiti appeared on parked trains. These acts caused significant financial losses for the public operators. Additionally, the graffiti led to "relevant environmental alterations", train delays, and risks to railway safety, according to the Catalan police.
Police units from the Central Airport and Public Transport Area (ACAT) and the Urban Transport Regional Area (ARTU) conducted the investigation. They identified individuals illegally accessing railway facilities to carry out the graffiti. The operation resulted in ten arrests and nine criminal reports. Authorities also issued four additional arrest warrants.
Targeting Repeat Offenders
Among those identified, some individuals had no prior investigation history. However, many had previous charges for similar incidents in 2023 and 2024. Most of the suspects are repeat offenders with multiple criminal records. Their past offences include damages linked to graffiti, theft, and robbery with force. Catalan police also noted one arrested individual had a record for assault against authority.
Enhanced Police Operations
In recent months, the Catalan police have increased their preventive activities at various stations. They also expanded teams dedicated to analysing and preventing railway incidents. This aims to improve response capabilities against vandalism and strengthen infrastructure protection. The police deployed a special operation, named Iris, across several municipalities on different days and times. This operation incorporated a Drone Unit to detect vulnerable points within the railway network.
These ongoing efforts by the Mossos d'Esquadra demonstrate a commitment to tackling public transport vandalism. The arrests and increased surveillance aim to deter future incidents, ensuring safer and more reliable services for Barcelona's residents and visitors.
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Originally published by La Vanguardia Barcelona. Read original article.
