Mossos d'Esquadra officers are investigating a shooting incident in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat's La Torrassa neighbourhood after residents reported multiple gunshots around 06:30 this morning. Police discovered five bullet casings on Rambla Catalana, a location known to security forces for past conflicts.
Investigators found no one at the scene initially. However, they have since questioned several individuals, according to Rac1 and confirmed by Generalitat police sources. Authorities have not reported any injuries from the incident. One working hypothesis suggests Latin gangs may be involved, sources close to the investigation stated.
This theory stems from the presence of Bar Josué on Rambla Catalana, an establishment that has caused conflict over recent years. Sources involved in the investigation recalled that Bar Josué faced a four-month closure for operating as an after-hours club without a licence. These sources expressed frustration, noting that businesses can reopen once they fix deficiencies. They also linked this morning's incident to the bar, explaining that approximately 30 people were present when police arrived. The incident highlights ongoing concerns for residents in L'Hospitalet, a city grappling with rising crime.
Targeting Organised Crime
Interior Minister Núria Parlon of the Generalitat de Catalunya addressed the issue of organised crime and drug trafficking in an interview with Rac1. She explained that authorities have long worked on the 'Kanpai plan' strategy. Minister Parlon stated, "for some time now, we have been working on the strategy of the Kanpai plan, sharing information of police interest and also of interest to the prosecution and judiciary themselves, to go after those who are leading criminal activities linked to the drug business." This plan involves sharing police intelligence and information with prosecutors and the judiciary.
Minister Parlon also stated that recent changes to the multi-offender law should help authorities become more effective. She believes these changes will improve not only police arrests but also ensure judicial and prosecutorial actions yield results. Parlon additionally acknowledged the problem of increasing bladed weapon use, confirming strategies are in place to confiscate them.
Rising Crime in L'Hospitalet
The reality in L'Hospitalet is particularly complex, according to reports by Mayka Navarro. Criminal groups there have evolved beyond simple violent youth gangs. They have consolidated into organised criminal organisations focusing on drug trafficking and robberies. These groups have been involved in firearm incidents recently.
On 28 March, a young Dominican man died from a gunshot wound in Les Planes park following an earlier altercation. His family denied any gang affiliation. In January this year, a young woman died from a stabbing in a 'narco-local' in central L'Hospitalet. This drug den had become a significant nuisance for local residents. Police arrested the alleged killer, and a judge ordered his imprisonment without bail.
Police Operations and Previous Incidents
In the same La Torrassa neighbourhood, Mossos officers arrested a 28-year-old man this past weekend for an assault during a fight. Investigators currently do not link this specific episode to Monday morning's shooting. However, the overall trend shows a worrying increase in criminal activity.
While Barcelona has seen a decrease in crime data, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat experienced a 10.1% increase over the last year. This stark contrast prompted Minister Parlon to announce a 'shock plan' in February. The plan aims to curb the rising crime rates in the city.
The ongoing investigation into the Rambla Catalana shooting will likely provide more details on the specific circumstances and any gang involvement. Residents and authorities in L'Hospitalet continue to face the challenge of tackling organised crime and ensuring public safety. The effectiveness of the 'Kanpai plan' and the new multi-offender law will be critical in addressing these persistent issues.
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Originally published by La Vanguardia Catalonia. Read original article.
