Redaccion
Alcobendas continues its fight against illegal occupation, in 2024 the municipal police carried out 83 evictions with an express judicial protocol and psychological assistance to victims, stating that they combine police firmness with social sensitivity.
The action protocol of the Local Police, in addition to regulating operational actions, also includes preventive actions to reduce criminal acts related to the illegal use of properties. In this sense, citizen collaboration is essential.
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The police in Alcobendas emphasize that in the presence of any indication that may lead to occupation, it is crucial to inform the police authorities as quickly as possible by calling 112, 092, or 091.
The councilor for Security, Carlos Rodrigo, has stated that the City Council will not allow «the rights of our neighbors to be violated. Our comprehensive plan against occupation combines prevention, immediate action, and support for those affected, always within the legal framework and coordinated with the courts and the National Police,» and he adds, «the data shows that our strategy works, and proof of this is that in Alcobendas we have managed to keep it under control.»
In September 2022, the City Council approved a motion from the Popular Group demanding that the Government of the nation toughen the Penal Code against occupation.
Innovative procedure to expedite evictions
In terms of criminal law, the Local Police of Alcobendas has developed an innovative immediate trial procedure. If an individual is a victim of occupation, both parties are summoned on the last day of the court’s duty, within approximately a week. This allows the judge, if deemed appropriate, to quickly order the eviction and return of the property to the owner. In 2024, this measure successfully resolved 14 cases. The Local Police collaborates with justice by providing support and protection to the judicial commission of the competent courts when ordering judicial evictions (evictions ordered by sentence).
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Support for victims and social assistance
Victims of illegal occupation in Alcobendas can access the Victim Support Service (SAV), which offers legal advice and psychological support. At the same time, evicted families receive attention from municipal social services to ensure dignified treatment throughout this process.
Anti-squatting alarms
To reinforce prevention against illegal occupation, the Police also have an annual budget for installing alarms in vulnerable homes. In 2024, six devices of this type were installed. Carlos Rodrigo highlights that «thanks to the close collaboration between the Local Police, National Police, the courts, and municipal services, we are containing cases of illegal occupation in our city. We will not let our guard down and will continue to use all available resources to ensure the safety and tranquility of our neighbors.»
The 112 Occupation in the Community of Madrid registered twice as many calls in the last month
Regional services against illegal occupation
To combat the illegal occupation of homes and offer support to affected individuals, the Community of Madrid has implemented various measures.
In July 2022, the CECOM 112-Occupation service was activated, accessible through the toll-free number 900 205 112. This service provides citizens with information on the legal aspects of illegal occupation and the available options to defend property in court. Additionally, it facilitates police action and protection and offers assistance through the Victim Support Offices (OAVD). In this way, with a single call, the affected parties
