“Lots of booths and lots of partying, but no one can live here“. This is one of the many messages shared in a group chat of residents from Cala de Bou who are tired of enduring robberies in the neighbourhood.
Despite their frustration, they still retain a sense of humour, referring to their neighbourhood as ‘Cala de Bronx’. In fact, that is the name they have given to their WhatsApp group, where they update each other on the crimes they learn about first-hand.
“We neighbours have to start protecting each other, because if we have to wait for the authorities to protect us…”, says a resident whose car was broken into and her belongings stolen.
The residents agree that the situation in the area has worsened recently and that, until a couple of years ago, they lived in complete tranquillity, without fear of being robbed. “Unfortunately, that has come to an end in Cala de Bou”, adds another neighbour.
Some admit they have taken matters into their own hands: “Three weeks ago I caught someone stealing and he got what he deserved. I had to pin him to the ground until the police arrived”. “We don’t have to be afraid — they do”, this neighbour insists.