During the second quarter of 2026, the National Police removed 1,235 knives in Madrid, a 13% increase compared to the previous year. The figures reveal a worrying rise in street violence.
An alarming report published by the Superior Police Headquarters has revealed that during the second quarter of 2026, law enforcement in Madrid has seized a total of 1,235 knives. This equates to nearly fourteen weapons removed each day and represents a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. This rise not only reflects a concerning trend in urban violence but also highlights the urgent need for more effective measures to ensure public safety.
Among the confiscated weapons are 52 automatic knives, which marks a staggering increase of 68% compared to last year's figures. These numbers suggest that not only are there more weapons in circulation, but they are also being used more frequently by individuals willing to commit violent acts.
The statistics further break down the situation by identifying the police stations with the highest activity in this area. The Usera-Villaverde police station leads the ranking with 161 seizures, followed by Puente de Vallecas, which reported 115, and Alcalá de Henares, with 102. In fourth and fifth place are the Centro police station, with 74, and Carabanchel, with 67. These data allow for a clear mapping of where this issue is concentrated.
A particularly disturbing statistic comes from the Suburban: the Metro Section of the Mobile Brigade has seen a surprising increase of 163% in its seizures, rising from eleven to twenty-nine weapons over the past year. Many detainees were found carrying daggers or other sharp objects concealed while travelling on this public transport, raising serious questions about safety within the metropolitan transport system.
Moreover, the specific types of weapons confiscated are equally alarming. Knives and machetes used by military units or imitations have increased by almost 28%, rising from 177 to 226 units since last year. This suggests a possible militarisation among certain criminal groups or individuals willing to use lethal tools to resolve conflicts.
To address this growing concern, the National Police has implemented up to eighteen specific security operations during this quarter coinciding with various municipal and district festivals, from San Isidro to local celebrations such as the festivities in Torrejón de Ardoz, Parla, or Getafe. These measures aim not only to prevent violent incidents during crowded events but also to send a clear message about the police's commitment to a safer city.
With these data on the table, it is evident that Madrid faces significant challenges related to armed violence and the misuse of dangerous objects. The community must remain vigilant and collaborate with the authorities to create safer environments for all its citizens.
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