Residents Warned After Storm-Linked Scam Emerges
The Local Police of Santa Coloma de Gramenet issued a public alert on Friday 2 October 2026 after reports of fraudsters impersonating electricity technicians. The individuals are targeting residents in the Catalan city, taking advantage of widespread power cuts caused by recent heavy storms across Catalonia. Posing as utility workers, the suspects knock on doors claiming they need to carry out urgent electrical inspections. Once allowed inside, they look for moments of distraction to steal valuables from homes.
Advice Issued to Protect Vulnerable Residents
Authorities have urged caution, particularly among vulnerable groups such as elderly people and those with reduced mobility. The police stress that residents should never allow anyone into their home without verifying their identity. If approached by someone claiming to be an electrician, residents are advised to ask for official identification and contact their electricity provider directly to confirm the worker’s status.
In case of doubt, close the door immediately and report the incident to the Local Police or call emergency services on 112.
Context: Repeated Power Cuts and Previous Scams
The current scam follows repeated power outages in the area, which were highlighted by Mayor Mireia González in a recent demand for explanations from energy supplier Endesa. Previous incidents of similar fraud have been reported, including cases where individuals posed as mattress sellers to gain access to homes. Residents can find further safety guidance through the Ajuntament's consumer protection alerts page at gramenet.cat/consum/alertes. For direct contact with local authorities, the Local Police can be reached at 93 462 40 10 or via emergency number 092.
Reported by elcaso.elnacional.cat, gramenet.cat, CatalunyaPress.es, Gabinet de Planificació i Organització, santacolomadigital.com, laciutat.cat, ajuntamentinforma.gramenet.cat, El Caso (El Nacional).
