New Leadership for Local Police
Iván Nogales has taken over as head of the Santa Coloma de Gramenet Local Police on a provisional basis, succeeding Superintendent Francesc Barral, who has retired after two years in charge. The appointment marks an internal succession within the force, reflecting continuity in the city's approach to citizen security. Nogales previously led the Operational and Citizen Security Division, where he coordinated operations focused on prevention, intervention, and housing squatting. His leadership experience includes directing the local police's strategy against illegal occupations, a priority for the municipal government.
Focus on Citizen Security and Proximity Policing
Under Nogales’s oversight, the force will continue its focus on proximity policing, emergency response, traffic regulation, and public space coexistence. The Local Police have carried out 1,008 actions related to the prevention, detection, intervention, and recovery of occupied properties over the past five years, according to municipal data. The city council has consistently reinforced police capacity, with ten new officers joining the force in 2026 alone. This expansion is part of a broader municipal strategy to strengthen operational capacity, improve technological resources, and modernise infrastructure.
Recognition for Outgoing Chief
Francesc Barral’s retirement concludes a career dedicated to public safety. During a farewell event, Mayor Mireia González thanked him for his commitment and leadership, highlighting his role in organising the force and maintaining close coordination with municipal services. "The commitment to Santa Coloma and the dedication involved in leading a service that requires constant attention and direct knowledge of the city's reality," was praised by the mayor, according to a council statement.
The new command structure takes effect immediately, with Nogales leading daily operations while the council determines a permanent appointment.
The transition occurs as the city advances construction of a new police headquarters at Avinguda Generalitat, a €11.7 million project set to become operational in 2027. The facility will double current capacity and integrate sustainable technologies, including rooftop solar panels.
Reported by elperiodico.com, ajuntamentinforma.gramenet.cat, gramenet.cat, Gabinet de Planificació i Organització, El Periódico Barcelona.
