El Puertito Residents Demand Local Police Office
Residents of El Puertito de Güímar are actively advocating for the establishment of a Local Police office in their community, a move they believe will significantly enhance safety and security in the area.
Growing Demand for Local Law Enforcement
The push for a decentralised Local Police office has gained considerable traction among the residents, particularly in light of a recent increase in police personnel. Gustavo Pérez, a representative of Coalición Canaria, has underscored that this proposal has been under discussion for the past two years. The primary objective is to ensure a consistent police presence and to establish an operational office within the local community centre, which serves as a hub for the area with the highest population density outside the urban core.
The recent addition of six new officers to the Local Police force presents a significant opportunity to activate this long-awaited service. Previously, the police chief had acknowledged the proposal as beneficial for the community but was unable to implement it due to a lack of available officers. The former mayor pointed out that the limited staff made it challenging to guarantee stable shifts in a region that experiences a high influx of both residents and visitors, particularly during peak seasons.
Community’s Persistent Call for Action
According to the CC councillor, “El Puertito has been waiting for this solution for years, and now we have the resources to address it.” The councillor emphasized that with the expanded workforce, establishing a permanent Local Police service in the coastal area is now feasible. This initiative is expected to improve safety, enhance community relations, and foster greater citizen engagement. The residents are hopeful that a dedicated police presence will not only deter crime but also build trust between law enforcement and the community.
On the 10th of this month, three officers officially took their oaths as new members of the Local Police in Güímar, marking the completion of their consolidation process within the force. Additionally, three more officers were appointed as probationary members, who will undergo the necessary training before becoming fully active. This influx of personnel is seen as a crucial step towards fulfilling the community’s long-standing request for a Local Police office.
Challenges Ahead for Local Police Unit
President Carmen Luisa Castro, along with other government representatives, stated that these new appointments are crucial for strengthening the police force to ensure the safety and well-being of both the citizens of Güímar and its visitors. However, it is important to note that this police unit is currently embroiled in legal proceedings initiated by the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The former councillor of the department has been accused of improperly acknowledging overtime payments to Local Police members, despite being aware of the legal stipulations surrounding such payments.
The Public Prosecutor has indicated that many officers received extra compensation without meeting the required ordinary working hours, a situation that has affected nearly the entire workforce. This legal challenge poses a significant hurdle for the Local Police as they strive to establish credibility and trust within the community. The ongoing scrutiny could impact the morale of the officers and the public’s perception of the police force.
Community Engagement and Future Prospects
The establishment of a Local Police office in El Puertito is not just about law enforcement; it is also about fostering a sense of community. Residents believe that having a dedicated police presence will encourage greater collaboration between citizens and law enforcement, leading to more effective crime prevention strategies. Community meetings and outreach programs could be initiated to facilitate dialogue between the police and residents, ensuring that the police are responsive to the specific needs and concerns of the community.
As the Local Police force continues to grow and evolve, the residents of El Puertito remain hopeful that their voices will be heard and that their demands for a Local Police office will soon be met. The combination of increased personnel and community support could pave the way for a safer and more secure environment, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.
Key points
- Residents of El Puertito de Güímar are advocating for a Local Police office.
- The proposal has gained urgency due to an increase in police personnel.
- Six new officers have recently joined the Local Police force.
- The initiative aims to enhance safety and community relations.
- The police unit is facing legal challenges regarding overtime payments.
