Mallorca CAEB Restauración reports an increase in thefts and pickpocketing in key areas of the historic centre. The association has requested a comprehensive security plan from the Delegation of the Government.
Pickpocketing has surged in the centre of Palma. This is reported by Mallorca CAEB Restauración, which has formally requested the Delegation of the Government to implement a comprehensive intervention in La Lonja, El Borne, and Plaza Mayor. The association warns that insecurity is harming the business of bars and restaurants in the area.
The manager of the association, Tomeu Mas, explains that the main issues detected are an "increase in thefts, pickpocketing, and pickpockets." Establishments are feeling the consequences. Valentín Haslbeck, owner of Bar Coto in La Lonja, laments that "many customers leave and half an hour later return to ask if they forgot their wallet; sadly, it has been stolen. This year we are having more bad experiences."
Toni Garau, manager of Caballito de Mar, also calls for more police surveillance in La Lonja. Mas adds that the situation is similar in El Borne and Plaza Mayor, where pickpockets frequently operate.
In addition to thefts, hospitality workers have reported other issues of coexistence and public order to the Delegation of the Government: illegal street vending, excessive noise from amplified music, and urination in the street. They are also concerned about the "presence of intoxicated individuals or those in extreme exclusion who need social or health assistance."
According to Mas, all these incidents "generate insecurity and damage the tourist image and economic activity of Palma." Therefore, the association demands a reinforcement of visible and deterrent police presence at the most critical points and times, as well as intensifying investigations against thefts and pickpocketing.
The request also calls for greater institutional coordination. "A joint response should be provided with the Ajuntament de Palma, the Local Police, and social services," Mas points out. The association considers it necessary to "design a specific and lasting security plan, avoiding isolated interventions."
Mas clarifies that "Mallorca CAEB Restauración does not seek to criticise institutions, but to cooperate to find proportionate solutions that respect the dignity of vulnerable people and restore security in the historic centre."
The affected establishments hope that the Delegation of the Government will address their request and that measures will be taken before the high season exacerbates the situation. In the meantime, hospitality workers advise customers to be extra cautious with their belongings, especially in the most crowded areas.
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