Junts per Barcelona has formally requested that the city council implement a plan to eradicate "mafia-like practices" in flat sub-letting across the city. The political group specifically highlighted an alleged international room sub-letting scheme linked to a "Swedish mafia" operating in Barcelona. This move puts pressure on Mayor Jaume Collboni's government to address housing fraud.
Jordi Martí, president of the Junts per Barcelona group, stressed the urgency of the situation. He stated, "We need more inspection, more coordination with the Mossos d'Esquadra and with the Public Prosecutor's Office, more resources to detect and report these schemes, more protection for affected owners and more forceful sanctions. We cannot allow Barcelona to become a paradise for international mafias." The group submitted a formal request to Mayor Jaume Collboni.
Demands for Action and Transparency
Junts' request demands the Ajuntament provide all available information regarding the alleged international room sub-letting scheme. This request also covers other detected networks. The group seeks details on actions taken against these schemes. They want a detailed outline of measures adopted and future plans. These plans should prevent, investigate, and eradicate such practices. This transparency is critical for residents and property owners in Barcelona.
Information gathered by Junts suggests this particular scheme operates in Barcelona using front men and shell companies. It reportedly has links to an international criminal organisation. Published reports indicate the city council has known about this scheme for five years. This network could manage up to 80 flats. It allegedly moves around €10 million annually. This impacts Barcelona's housing market, affecting both residents and property owners.
Impact on Barcelona's Housing Market
The presence of such schemes distorts the rental market. It also creates insecurity for legitimate landlords and tenants. The Eixample district, for example, home to 260,000 residents, often sees high demand for rental properties. Illegal sub-letting can inflate prices and reduce available housing. This makes it harder for ordinary people to find affordable homes.
The city council now faces pressure to respond to Junts' demands. Residents and property owners await concrete steps to address these illegal sub-letting operations. The outcome will show the Ajuntament's commitment to tackling organised crime within the housing sector.
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Originally published by Metrópoli Abierta - Urban Life. Read original article.
