Plan Targets 34 Violent Youth Groups
The Mossos d'Esquadra have activated Plan Proa, a new integrated strategy to detect, prevent and dismantle violent youth groups across Catalonia, with a focus on Barcelona and its metropolitan area. The move follows a confirmed rise in youth-related violence and the identification of at least 34 active groups operating in the region. According to the Generalitat de Catalunya’s official press release, these groups consist of both minors and adults and are characterised by territorial control, inter-group rivalry, and the use of violence. The Mossos estimate that around 1,000 individuals are linked to these groups, including between 400 and 600 formally identified members and another 500 associates.
Focus on Prevention and Intelligence
Plan Proa integrates police intelligence, investigation, prevention and operational neutralisation under a single command structure. It establishes a centralised management model to collect and analyse data from across the territory, aiming to anticipate criminal activity and disrupt group dynamics before escalation. The strategy includes enhanced police training to identify early risk indicators, targeted operations against criminal behaviour, and collaboration with local police forces where appropriate. A Central Table and territorial coordination tables will ensure strategic oversight while allowing responses tailored to local conditions.
The objective is to dismantle existing gangs and prevent the emergence of new ones.
Sílvia Catà, chief commissioner of the Mossos d'Esquadra, stated that the gangs use violence to recruit members, primarily targeting adolescents aged 15 or 16. She emphasized that the police objective is to dismantle existing gangs and prevent the emergence of new ones.
Gangs Concentrated in Urban Areas
The most active groups are concentrated in Barcelona neighbourhoods including Nou Barris, La Sagrera and Eixample, as well as in metropolitan municipalities such as Montcada, Mollet, Granollers and L'Hospitalet de Llobregat. Smaller groups have also been detected in Lleida, Girona and Tarragona. The five most prominent gangs, Barrio 18, Los 300, Trinitarios, Latin Kings and Mara Salvatrucha, account for 80% of related crimes. Barrio 18, Los 300 and Trinitarios alone are responsible for 66% of violent incidents and three out of four identified members.
What This Means for Residents
The activation of Plan Proa signals an intensified police presence in public spaces where these groups gather. Residents, particularly parents and school communities, may notice increased patrols and outreach initiatives in affected areas. The Mossos are working with schools through educational programmes to raise awareness of gang recruitment tactics. Further details on the plan’s implementation and community engagement efforts will be published on the Mossos d'Esquadra website.
Sources: Diari Catalunya, Generalitat de Catalunya, Govern de Catalunya, El Periódico.
