Residents and political groups in Barcelona's Poble-sec neighbourhood are uniting to address rising insecurity, drug dealing, and public space concerns. The Sants-Montjuïc district council recently approved unanimous proposals for action against drug points. Meanwhile, a neighbourhood association meeting drew over 50 residents to discuss these pressing issues.

The district government confirms that fighting drug sales is a shared priority with competent police forces. They are carrying out coordinated investigations and interventions. Albert Deusedes, a spokesperson councillor, reported significant police activity. He stated that authorities dismantled seven drug points across Sants-Montjuïc in the last three months. Three of these were "narcopisos," or drug flats, located specifically in Poble-sec. These flats were found on Carrer del Roser, Carrer de Vallhonrat, and Carrer de la Font Honrada.

Residents Demand Stronger Police Presence

The Poble-sec Neighbourhood Association (AV del Poble-sec) organised a meeting to discuss three distinct problems. These include crime, homelessness, and the upkeep of public spaces. Residents at the meeting called for more visible police presence. They specifically requested reinforced foot patrols, both day and night, to improve local safety.

Councillor Deusedes acknowledged the positive impact of foot patrols on the perception of security. However, he explained that foot patrols also reduce the police's overall coverage and immediate response capacity for incidents. "For this reason, police deployments are mainly configured through motorised and more dynamic patrols," Deusedes argued. The district government insists it cannot detail ongoing police investigations for operational reasons. However, it assures the public that it works with updated information on drug sales and consumption points.

Public Space and Homelessness Concerns

Sergi Gàzquez, President of the Poble-sec Neighbourhood Association, highlighted other factors affecting residents' sense of safety. He told Infobarris that poor lighting in some areas and the presence of dirt contribute to local discomfort. "These are public space issues that ultimately generate a feeling of unease or restlessness, which ends in a feeling of insecurity," the AV del Poble-sec commented. The association urges residents to call the 112 emergency number whenever they detect suspicious activity. This ensures incidents reach the police and are officially registered.

The association also points to a serious increase in homelessness within the neighbourhood, particularly around Montjuïc. Gàzquez stressed that this is a social issue, separate from criminal activity. "There is an increase in homeless people in the neighbourhood, especially around Montjuïc. It is a social issue," Gàzquez said. The AV del Poble-sec advocates for adequate facilities for these individuals. They suggest these facilities should accommodate companion animals and personal belongings.

Integrated Approach to Social Issues

The Poble-sec Neighbourhood Association argues that the issue of homelessness requires a country-wide approach. They believe Barcelona cannot manage the problem alone. Gàzquez also noted the presence of a group of criminals who use the Montjuïc mountain to hide. He stated that police must address this specific concern.

In response, the district government explained its integrated approach for Montjuïc. This strategy combines security operations with social interventions. This is especially true for situations involving homelessness. Social services and other involved municipal agents participate in these efforts. The AV del Poble-sec also reported positive results from a working group with the City Council. This group addressed problems around the Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies. The association now aims to extend this successful model across the entire Poble-sec neighbourhood. They plan to meet with the district next week to convey all resident concerns gathered at their recent meeting.

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Originally published by betevé. Read original article.