Andorra Police Chief Blames Heating Delays for Runer Border Cold Complaints

Police chief Bruno Lasne has attributed complaints about freezing conditions at the Runer River border police facilities to delays in delivering a replacement heating machine ordered in November.

Lasne and Interior and Justice Minister Ester Molné addressed the matter on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony for the 58th promotion of police officers, which included seven new agents taking their final oath. The event, attended by Head of Government Xavier Espot, followed public grievances from officers facing harsh winter weather at the site.

Lasne confirmed police leadership knew of the issue and applied a temporary fix in early November while awaiting the new rooftop unit that powers the entire central heating system. The original machine had burned out, and despite the order being placed that month with the supplier, it has not arrived. He rejected the company's excuses tied to Christmas holidays as invalid, insisting the equipment should be installed now since "officers are enduring the cold now, not in summer." Interim steps have involved replacing damaged electrical lines, electrician visits, and portable radiators. Lasne conceded the officers "have reason to complain" and that working without heat in mid-winter is unacceptable.

Molné stated the government is in regular contact with police leaders, prioritising the replacement and pressing the supplier for faster delivery and answers. Once fixed, she said, a recent report's other findings—such as damaged chairs—will be assessed. Budget lines support ongoing improvements to equipment and facilities, though not dedicated funds for each emerging problem. The minister affirmed the aim of providing Runer border officers with adequate working conditions.

Espot praised the police's "basic public service task" as a pillar of Andorra's rule of law, highlighting the Principat's second-place global safety ranking (84.8/100) and top European position. He noted stable crime rates over the past decade and pledged continued investment in resources. Lasne called for reaching 300 active officers, up from the current 266, citing improved pay boosting applications in recent calls. Molné urged patience, noting the latest 15-place recruitment drive is ongoing before considering more.