Salvador Illa, President of the Generalitat, announced a 6.3% reduction in crimes across Catalonia during the first quarter of 2026, representing approximately 9,000 fewer offences compared to the same period last year. He made the announcement in Barcelona at the Dia de les Esquadres 2026 ceremony, stating that Catalonia is becoming "more secure" each day. Speaking at the International Convention Centre of Barcelona (CCIB), Illa emphasised that "reoffending doesn't pay off" and highlighted improved police effectiveness, with over 46,000 criminal acts resolved this year. He was joined by Interior and Public Security Minister Núria Parlon, Mossos Chief Commissioner Miquel Esquius, and Police Director General Josep Lluís Trapero. The President stressed the importance of public perception regarding safety, stating that "citizens must feel that we are all united on the issue of their security." He added that protecting citizens is a fundamental aspect of the country's model and should not be subject to political confrontation or manipulation by those seeking to divide society. Illa advocated for a "trident" approach to achieve good coexistence, based on solid institutions that guarantee top-tier security, social cohesion, and an effective protection system. He affirmed that "when we talk about security, Mossos d'Esquadra and judges become the reference," underscoring the necessity of police and judicial effectiveness. The Catalan government's commitment to security is clear, according to Illa, with plans to increase police personnel to 26,000 by 2030, creating the largest force since its inception. Additionally, 180 new judicial posts and 60 new courts are planned for the current legislative term. He pledged that "not a single neighbourhood or city" would be neglected in terms of security, while criticising extremist groups for exploiting such concerns with hate speech. Illa also addressed the officers directly, saying, "Behind every statistic there is a person, an agent on patrol who thinks of their neighbourhood and their people. Your work is essentially to care for others, to protect and to help." ## Combating Persistent Offenders Chief Commissioner Esquius acknowledged Catalonia's increasing diversity and population, which brings "greater complexity" but does not equate to a less secure society. He detailed the success of the 'Kanpai' plan, designed to combat persistent reoffending. Thanks to the 'Kanpai' plan, 580 persistent offenders, who collectively had over 4,000 previous convictions, have been arrested. Around 100 of these individuals have already been imprisoned, Esquius confirmed. Minister Parlon added that 'Kanpai' has reduced overall crime by 40%. Parlon also mentioned the new 'Kanpai Pista' initiative, deployed on motorways to tackle robberies and thefts, which has led to a 37% reduction in these specific crimes. Esquius cautioned against "simple solutions for complex problems," citing cannabis cultivation and trafficking as a serious issue for the Catalan police, alongside violent extremism and youth violence. ## Future Challenges and Police Development Looking ahead, Esquius outlined future challenges, including growth and digital transformation. These require more personnel, new infrastructure, and advanced technologies. He also highlighted the need to understand new risks in the virtual world and those related to natural disasters and emergencies. Minister Parlon also called for improved community policing and stronger Victim Support Groups. She stressed the importance of protecting victims of certain crimes that have not yet seen a reduction. Parlon noted that 80% of crimes are against property, but acknowledged the occurrence of sexual assaults and gender-based violence. She stated, "We need to equip and project [the police organisation] with the best resources" to address these issues. Police Director General Trapero announced that 1,300 new police trainees would join the force in August, complementing the existing 20,035 Mossos. He described this as a "pairing" that would combine the experience of veterans with the fresh perspectives of new recruits, resulting in a more adaptable and practical police force. Trapero emphasised the need for continuous evolution, stating, "In a world that evolves, so do we. We listen externally and internally. All contributions are necessary." He urged new recruits to show compassion towards citizens, recognising that officers are often the first point of help and comfort for those in fear. "We are here to transform, to improve people's lives," he added. ## Recognising Service and Bravery The Mossos d'Esquadra highlighted that the awards ceremony serves to recognise officers who have demonstrated bravery, courage, and a strong commitment to service, sometimes risking their own lives to save others. A total of 163 medals and 5 plaques were awarded. Of these, 111 medals were presented to agents of the force, acknowledging those injured during police operations or for actions that saved citizens' lives. The event was attended by senior officers from other police forces, including Pedro Antonio Pizarro, head of the Guardia Civil in Catalonia; Pedro Velázquez, Intendent Major of the Guàrdia Urbana de Barcelona; and Manuel Rodríguez Jiménez, Chief Superintendent of the National Police in Catalonia. Other notable attendees included Ramón Espadaler, Minister for Justice and Democratic Quality; Carlos Prieto, Government Delegate in Catalonia; Tomás Carrión, Secretary General for Security at the Interior Department; various Members of Parliament, Congress, and the Senate; and numerous mayors and councillors. Also present were Francisco Bañeres, Chief Prosecutor of Catalonia; Mercè Caso, President of the High Court of Justice of Catalonia; and other representatives from the judiciary, public prosecution, consular services, and political spheres.