Since the start of the month, authorities in Alicante province have stepped up the presence of police and Civil Guard officers who normally operate in the shopping districts. This increase comes as crowds swell during the Christmas shopping season. The Safe Trade operation involves deploying around 1,300 personnel and was announced by the national government yesterday. Araceli Poblador, the Government’s Deputy Representative, Manuel Lafuente, the Provincial Police Chief, and Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Poyato, Chief of Civil Guard Provincial Operations, outlined the plan and its objectives.
The security strategy centers on a dual approach: reinforcing uniformed officers and providing undercover presence to deter crime, while strengthening collaboration with merchants and security firms that operate in major retail hubs. The goal is to deliver practical advice to shopkeepers and customers alike, helping to reduce the opportunities for crime during the holiday shopping rush.
Prevention
The plan targets criminal activity that commonly affects shoppers and retailers during peak periods, including theft, robbery, and fraud, often driven by crowded venues and high turnover. The aim is to protect victims and deter would-be offenders by increasing visibility and readiness across key commercial corridors and transport nodes.
Araceli Poblador stressed that the objective is for residents and visitors to shop with confidence and security. The deputy emphasized that areas with the most foot traffic and transit hubs will see heightened police presence to ensure safety and order throughout the holiday period.
The image of safety is reinforced by a visible partnership between police and the local markets sector. A representative from the Alicante Municipal Markets Merchants Association accompanied officers during the operation, illustrating the cooperative approach that links law enforcement with business stakeholders on the ground.
Commissioner Manuel Lafuente noted that the National Police have mobilized 920 agents across Alicante, Elche, Orihuela, Elda, Petrer, Alcoy, Benidorm, and Dénia, with the majority stationed in Alicante to maximize coverage in high-traffic areas. The force will also strengthen staffing in complaint offices and coordinate with Local Police to maintain calm and order during the festive period. The safety posture includes a high alert status reflecting the level of risk at the moment.
Commercial Protection
Lieutenant Colonel Francisco Poyato highlighted that the Civil Guard maintains a year-round focus on trade and tourism protection, and this effort has intensified since the start of December. The deployment relies on a mix of uniformed officers and civilian personnel working in close coordination with Local Police, engaging directly with managers of shopping centers and private security providers in areas with heavy footfall. This integrated approach aims to create a safer shopping environment for locals and visitors alike.
Additionally, the Civil Guard disseminates practical tips to help tourists guard against theft and other crimes. Citizens are encouraged to use available safety resources and to seek prompt assistance from the security forces and institutions if they experience or witness any wrongdoing. The emphasis is on proactive prevention as much as on rapid response should an incident occur.
Overall, the coordinated effort reflects a comprehensive strategy that combines patrols, information sharing, and partnerships with the business community. By maintaining a strong, visible presence and facilitating easy channels for help, authorities aim to keep the Christmas holidays peaceful and enjoyable for everyone in the region.