ARCHIVED - Granada police to use drones in crack down on street drinking
Drones are being used increasingly by police forces across Spain to control large areas with minimal resources
As has been the case in other areas of Spain, the Andalusian city of Granada has registered a sharp increase in the number of youngsters gathering to drink in the streets or holding private parties since restrictions came into force due to the coronavirus pandemic
Local Police in Granada are to start using drones to keep an eye on public spaces and quickly put a stop to ‘botellones’ or street drinking parties.
The drones, the council said, will help police keep an eye on streets, squares and public spaces in real time and help to use resources more efficiently.
Although the rate of covid cases is falling within the Andalucía region, there is considerable concern about the possibility of a fourth wave, and as it is well documented that illegal gatherings are frequently the source of contagions, police are particularly concerned that illegal “botellón” drinking sessions should be restricted.
Last year, the city’s police force issued 1,534 denuncias for street drinking and 669 for attending parties in flats.
Image: A similar drone being used in Seville