Mossos d'Esquadra, in collaboration with El Prat de Llobregat local police, launched a major security operation in the Sant Cosme neighbourhood on Friday, 24 April. The extensive deployment targeted the '801 viviendas' area, a known hotspot within the Barcelona metropolitan area, arresting one person and identifying over 165 individuals.
The operation aimed to curb escalating hostility and insecurity caused by closely related Romani ethnic clans. These groups are allegedly involved in drug trafficking and have been linked to attacks on emergency services personnel, taxi drivers, and delivery workers in the area. Police also seized a significant cache of weapons and uncovered illegal animal fighting activities.
Tackling Organised Crime and Violence
Officers intervened after months of incidents, including reports of firearms use. Mossos specialists detected weapons compatible with automatic and military-grade firearms. The clans reportedly believe the neighbourhood belongs to them, leading to increased aggression towards outsiders and authorities. Incidents involving firearms, including shootings, have occurred both within and outside the '801 viviendas' zone, according to El Caso.com.
Police intelligence indicated that clan members hid weapons in common areas for quick access during confrontations. This practice significantly increases the danger within the neighbourhood. Previous searches uncovered weapons in parked cars and concealed in public spaces, such as utility covers and pipes, to prevent them from being linked to specific residents.
Extensive Police Deployment and Seizures
The operation, planned for early morning on Friday, 24 April, involved a wide array of police units. Public order units ARRO and Brimo participated, alongside officers from the Citizen Security Unit (USC) of El Prat's police station, located near the neighbourhood. Air support, canine units, and subsoil units also assisted in the deployment.
The primary objectives included locating hidden weapons and asserting police authority over the criminal groups. Officers seized half a dozen machetes and a carbine. They also recovered stolen items, including welding equipment and catalytic converters, along with electric scooters believed to be stolen. Police impounded several vehicles and issued fines for others with irregular documentation.
Uncovering Illegal Activities
During the public security operation, which concluded at midday without serious incident due to the strong police presence, officers also worked with Endesa. They cut electricity supply to several blocks on Río Anoia and Río Cardener streets. These locations were suspected of housing illegally occupied flats converted into cannabis plantations.
Furthermore, Mossos officers made a surprising discovery in one of the inspected blocks, El Caso.com reported. They found several fighting cocks and racing pigeons, which the Catalan police's Regional Environmental Unit intervened. Agents were particularly surprised to find a cockfighting ring on the top floor of one block, still showing fresh blood. They also detected illegal Japanese nets for catching birds and an unauthorised veterinary area for animal surgery, all operating outside legal and sanitary regulations.
Ongoing Efforts for Public Safety
This operation represents another significant effort by Mossos d'Esquadra to combat the expansion of hostility and organised crime in Sant Cosme. The police aim to curb the influence of these groups, both within the neighbourhood and against other organised crime groups in the wider Barcelona metropolitan area. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to ensure public safety and maintain order in the community.
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Originally published by El Caso (El Nacional). Read original article.
