Palma’s local police command is taking decisive action in disbanding the controversial Green Patrol unit. Following the most recent scandals arising from the activities of some members of this unit - five of whom are currently on remand suspected of police corruption - it is to be replaced by a new unit with greater control and supervision.
The town hall’s councillor for security, Angélica Pastor, has announced that there will be a Unit for the Environment and Activities (UMAA) which will operate during the daytime, and it will supervise the actions of officers who work in the Night Unit (UNOC). In this way, all records, inspections or seals (temporary closures of establishments or equipment) will have double control and supervision. The intention is for there to be procedures which will provide the public with greater transparency and service quality. At the same time, it is designed to eliminate any suspicion of police corruption and showing favour.
Meanwhile, last week various officers from the Green Patrol presented a document to the anti-corruption prosecutor and the investigating judge in Palma in which they acknowledged that procedures by which they operated were conducive to bringing about injustices. Following this, the current chief of the unit sent an internal report to the councillor for the local police in which he said he felt pressurised by the presence of one particular officer attached to the unit. The councillor forwarded the report to the court and the chief has been called to testify.
On a separate issue, the police command has ordered police files to be sealed for reasons of security. This follows what appears to have been the “loss” or “misplacement” of documents called for by judges and the National Police. Consequently, it has been decided to adopt increased security measures. From now on, anyone wanting access to any document or proceedings will have to ask for this in writing, await authorisation from a superior and then record whatever file is entered or taken out.