El Prat Airport crime drops by 82% ahead of Mobile World Congress

Increased police presence and restraining orders for repeat offenders lead to record low theft numbers at terminals.

Generic image of several police officers patrolling a modern airport terminal.
IA

Generic image of several police officers patrolling a modern airport terminal.

The Mossos d'Esquadra police force has achieved a historic reduction in crime at Barcelona-El Prat Airport, reporting only one theft during the peak arrival period for the Mobile World Congress.

February concluded with 98 reported crimes, marking the first time in months that the figure has dropped below one hundred. This represents a major shift compared to previous periods when monthly arrests could reach up to 700.

"Barcelona airport is no longer an attractive place for pickpockets and repeat offenders."

Joan Alfred Vives · Head of the Regional Airport Security Area of the Mossos
The security strategy includes 66 court orders banning habitual offenders from the airport premises. Additionally, increased visibility of uniformed officers and over a hundred new surveillance cameras have been deployed across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Overall criminality in the municipality of El Prat de Llobregat has decreased by 82%. This data highlights the success of the security plan implemented since the America's Cup in late 2024, ensuring a safe environment for international visitors.