CEP Demands 350 More Police Officers for Alicante

The union calls for a stable reinforcement due to population growth and rising crime rates in the city.

Generic image of police emergency lights reflecting on wet asphalt at night.
IA

Generic image of police emergency lights reflecting on wet asphalt at night.

The Spanish Police Confederation (CEP) in Alicante is demanding a "real and stable" reinforcement of the National Police force in the Alicante capital, with the addition of 300 to 350 officers.

The union argues that population growth, increased urban activity, and a rise in criminal offenses necessitate an adaptation of human resources to the city's current reality.
According to data from CEP Alicante, the population has grown from 338,577 inhabitants in 2022 to 366,221 in 2025, an increase of 27,644 residents (over 8%). This figure is compounded by the daily pressure from tourism, leisure, events, commerce, and travel for work or services.
Crime has also seen a significant increase. Registered criminal offenses rose from 21,204 in 2022 to 27,169 in 2025, representing 5,965 more crimes, an increase of nearly 28%.
CEP Alicante estimates the current ratio to be approximately 30 National Police officers per 10,000 inhabitants (one officer per 333 registered citizens), not accounting for the floating population. They believe the city should aim for a ratio of 40 National Police officers per 10,000 inhabitants, requiring an additional 300 to 350 officers.
The union emphasizes that an increase in personnel would not automatically eliminate crime but would allow for enhanced police presence on the streets, improved prevention, increased investigative capacity, faster citizen response, and reduced workload for current officers. They urge the General Directorate of the Police, the Ministry of the Interior, and relevant administrations to address this request to improve the safety of all citizens.