Cruz del Señor Neighborhood Deteriorates Amid Drugs, Illegal Selling
Cruz del Señor residents and shopkeepers report a worsening quality of life and safety concerns due to persistent homelessness, drug use, and illegal street selling, despite ongoing police efforts to address the issues.
Residents and shopkeepers in the Cruz del Señor neighborhood of the capital say that life there has become worse, with less harmony and more safety concerns. They told DIARIO DE AVISOS that this is due to a long-standing problem with homeless people, drug use, and illegal street selling. This worrying situation, which residents say has been going on for nearly two years, is mainly around the church square but also affects Venezuela Avenue and nearby streets.
People interviewed by the newspaper reported seeing groups gathering to deal and use drugs, drink alcohol, and beg. An ongoing street market makes these problems even worse. Locals are unhappy about feeling unsafe and seeing rubbish pile up on the pavements. They often report fights, robberies, and damage to cars. They also criticize the Local and National Police for not doing enough, even though officers are present on Islas Canarias Avenue. Residents are calling for more action to bring back order.
In response, Gladis de León, the Security Councilor for the capital's City Council, stated that the Local Police have had clear instructions for months to address the issues in Cruz del Señor. She explained that officers are ordered to control the market near the church and to monitor the area during every shift, aiming to eliminate this problem spot. De León added that many fines have been issued for street selling, and police officers patrol the area daily.