Graffiti crackdown operations across Catalonia have resulted in twenty arrests following extensive damage to public transport infrastructure.

According to police reports, the individuals face charges for 130 separate offenses targeting trains and facilities operated by Renfe, FGC, and TMB, with estimated damages exceeding €550,000.

The coordinated police action, known as Operation Tinta, uncovered systematic vandalism affecting high-speed rail networks, Rodalies commuter services, and Barcelona’s metro system.

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Furthermore, investigators documented significant service disruptions and safety risks throughout the transport network.

Graffiti Crackdown Reveals Sophisticated Operation

Police analysis revealed the suspects employed sophisticated methods to avoid detection. They typically accessed stations through non-public areas while varying their operating days and times. Additionally, they concealed their identities, completed large-scale graffiti rapidly, and used pseudonyms to sign their work.

Eleven of those arrested face charges for 34 specific damage offenses causing €99,043 in losses. Consequently, these incidents directly impacted public services, causing circulation delays and creating railway safety hazards. The remaining suspects are linked to 96 additional offenses with economic damages totaling €455,660 across Barcelona and Girona regions.

Meanwhile, police have observed a concerning increase in this type of criminal activity over recent years. The transport infrastructure damage has particularly affected Catalonia, with Barcelona experiencing the highest concentration of incidents.

Enhanced Security Measures Implemented

In response to the growing problem, the Mossos d’Esquadra have reinforced their presence at key stations throughout the territory. They have also expanded their specialised team for analysing and preventing railway incidents of police interest.

Targeted operations are now focusing on several strategic locations including Montcada i Bifurcació Station, Granollers Centre Station, Martorell Station, and França Station. Therefore, these enhanced measures aim to provide a more effective response to future incidents.

The police investigation continues to analyse crimes committed over the past two years. This graffiti crackdown represents one of the most significant operations against transport infrastructure vandalism in recent Catalan history.

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