Sharp Decline in Train Thefts Across Catalonia

The number of thefts on Catalonia’s railway network, including Rodalies, Renfe and metro services, has fallen by 20% in the first six months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, according to data from the Mossos d'Esquadra. In Barcelona, where most rail passengers travel, theft reports have dropped by 40%. The decline was less pronounced in other areas: 11% in the northern region and 19% in the southern region. In the south, thieves often target tourists arriving at stations connected to Barcelona–El Prat Airport.

The vast majority of crimes on public rail transport are thefts or robberies carried out without violence.

Inspector Eduard Muñoz, head of the Mossos’ Area Central Aeroportuaria i de Transport Públic (ACAT), and Sergeant Marcos García, head of ACAT’s Investigation Unit, confirmed that police efforts combine visible and undercover patrols at stations and on trains.

Targeting Organised Crime and Repeat Offenders

A key factor behind the drop is the disruption of organised pickpocketing gangs. Officers use surveillance footage to identify repeat offenders and link multiple thefts to specific individuals or groups. Some common tactics include:

  • Distracting victims with fake map inquiries while an accomplice steals valuables
  • Using crowding to conceal snatching or bag-picking
  • Observing PINs during ticket purchases to later steal bank cards and withdraw cash

One group specialising in PIN observation, known locally as "mirapins", was dismantled, though officers report its members have relocated to cities outside Catalonia. Under the recently implemented repeat offender law, prosecutors can now request prison sentences or court-ordered bans from railway premises for habitual offenders. Since early 2023, the Mossos have arrested 221 repeat offenders involved in thefts on fast transit routes. Joint operations with security staff, including Kanpai initiatives on buses and trains, have helped identify suspects before crimes occur.

Sants Station Remains a Key Focus

Barcelona Sants station remains a hotspot for theft due to its airport links and high passenger volume. A significant portion of police activity is concentrated there. Despite increased enforcement, authorities stress that many thefts still result from passenger inattention. Officers advise travellers to keep phones, wallets and bags secure, especially during boarding and in crowded carriages.

Primary sources: govern.cat, eb.gencat.cat, govern.cat, govern.cat. Reported by Source Text Link, Germán González, barna.news, elperiodico.com.