The Mossos d'Esquadra have activated alerts due to the growth of youth gangs in Barcelona and its metropolitan area. These groups have evolved into organized crime structures, using firearms and recruiting minors from the age of 11 through the internet. They control areas such as Sants, Nou Barris, and L'Hospitalet, financing themselves through drug trafficking and cyber scams. For residents, this translates into increased insecurity in parks and streets, where youth violence has become professionalized and expanded.
How technology drives the recruitment and operations of these gangs 💻
Gangs use social networks and encrypted messaging applications to recruit minors, thus avoiding police surveillance. They employ cyber scam techniques to generate income, such as phishing and fraud in online purchases and sales. Additionally, they coordinate their movements and drug sales through private channels, hindering authorities' intervention. This use of technology allows them to operate in an agile and decentralized manner, expanding their control over territory without the need for constant physical presence, which complicates prevention efforts.
The new anti-gang plan: more police or a good social firewall 😅
Given the situation, one might think the solution could be a firewall for minors, but no, the Mossos propose more patrols. Of course, because if they already control networks and encryption, all they were missing was an officer on every corner to feel right at home. Meanwhile, residents of Nou Barris wonder if the next playground will come with a metal detector or if they'll need to book an appointment to sit on a bench. Good thing digital leisure already recruits them for free.