Riu Runer Border Police Start Urgent Facility Upgrades After Heating Failure

Police at the Riu Runer border post have begun urgent upgrades to their dilapidated facilities following the arrival of specialised equipment to fix the heating system, which had been completely out for three months and poorly functioning for years.

The repairs come after prolonged complaints from officers, who described the conditions as "precarious and sometimes degrading." Sources within the force noted that they had to wear multiple layers of clothing, including jackets, during their 12-hour shifts, even indoors. They also highlighted the inability to conduct searches of controlled individuals or detainees due to the facility's shortcomings.

Police director Bruno Lasne stated on Friday that the machine's arrival was imminent, prompting the last-minute work. In addition to the heating repairs, office furniture has been partially renewed with new chairs, and faulty light bulbs are being replaced to address deficient lighting.

Officers expressed frustration over the delays, lamenting the "lack of consideration" from superiors. One source remarked that resorting to media coverage to prompt action was "embarrassing and leads to a lot of disappointment." They added that if the office were in a private company, "the administration would already have sanctioned it."

It remains unclear whether further improvements, such as door closures or other structural elements, will follow. The upgrades address long-standing issues at the customs post, where officers have endured substandard conditions despite daily demands.