Mossos GEI Chief Warns Firearm Threat From Criminal Networks Is Growing.
The head of the Catalan police’s elite intervention unit has issued a stark warning about the increasing prevalence of firearms in criminal operations over the last five years.
In an exclusive interview with Europa Press, the anonymous commander stated that weapons are now routinely encountered during raids on drug plantations and dangerous arrests.
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Consequently, the unit is constantly upgrading its technological capabilities to counter this escalating risk.
Mossos GEI Chief Details Rising Operational Threats
The commander explained that his 48-strong team, based at the Complex Central Egara in Sabadell, is now activated specifically when intelligence indicates a high probability of firearms being present. He described a dangerous “three-way game” where criminals, police, and rival gangs can become entangled, sometimes leading to shots being fired at officers mistaken for competitors.
Furthermore, the data for 2025 underscores the unit’s critical role. They have been deployed 90 times so far this year, with 45% of calls for dangerous entries and arrests. The unit’s evolution has been driven by the changing tactics of criminal networks, forcing constant adaptation in methods and equipment.
The Mossos GEI chief emphasised that technological advancement is now a core priority. Therefore, the unit employs drones, fibre optics, and even artificial intelligence to plan operations. They are also evaluating new body-worn cameras for tactical oversight and plan to introduce an operational dog to assist in interventions.
Despite the growing threat, the commander stressed that increased firearm presence does not equate to a loss of operational control. He pointed to the extensive training and preparation agents now undergo. Moreover, the unit works closely with other specialised Mossos teams, including the canine unit, TEDAX bomb disposal, and the drone unit, for vital operational support.
The philosophy within the tight-knit GEI team is one of unity and shared purpose, which the leader sees as essential for effectiveness. This professional approach has garnered international recognition, with other European forces seeking to learn their methodologies. The commander’s warning highlights a significant shift in the landscape of serious crime facing Catalonia’s police forces, a challenge mirrored in other areas of public safety and urban security across the region.
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