The crime rate is low in most of Spain but you should still be aware of the possibilities of crime when you are in Spain, particularly in the larger towns and cities where petty theft such as bag snatching can be commonplace.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent a crime happening to you:
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash with you.
- Don’t discuss your finances with anyone, especially people you don’t know.
- If you are using taxis, ensure that they are genuine, registered taxis which are clearly marked.
- Carry your valuables close to you, especially in crowded places such as airports and bus stations.
If you are a victim of crime, there are police stations in all the towns and cities, or you can contact the police in an emergency by phoning 091. Alternatively you can dial 112 which is the number for European-wide Emergency Services. You can use this number for any other emergency including accidents or health-related emergencies.
There are three main types of police in Spain. It can be a good idea to know which police force does which job while you are staying in Spain.
The Guardia Civil (Civil Guard)
The Guardia civil was founded in 1855 during the reign of Isabel II. They are responsible for national security, customs and crowd control. Their responsibilities also include traffic control and the control of guns and explosives. You will find that they usually where a green uniform and carry guns. They are responsible to the Ministry of Defence and are also under military control.
Policia Nacional (National Police)
The National Police Force was created in 1986 after amalgamating the plainclothes Cuerpo Superior de Policia (Higher Police Corps) and the uniformed service, the Cuerpo de Policia Nacional (National Police Corps). They wear a navy blue uniform and are responsible for the handling of criminal, judicial, terrorism and immigration matters. They are also responsible for issuing identity cards and passports. The Policia Nacional operates in the main cities and larger towns of Spain and they are an armed force. One of their earlier uniforms was brown in colour and because of this they have the nickname of "la maderallos maderos" which means ‘the wood’ or ‘the logs’.
Policia Municipal (Municipal Police)
The Municipal Police are a force who come under the jurisdiction of the Town Hall and are responsible to the Mayor. They deal with minor crimes and traffic offences and are probably the police force that are more willing to help tourists and can advise you on a range of queries – even if you just want to know when the local shops are open. Their uniform is navy and white and they are armed.
In case you get stopped by the police, ensure you carry some identification, such as your passport, with you at all times. If you are driving you will need to carry your driving license and insurance documents.