Andorra Justice Minister Urges Patience on Pas de la Casa Anti-Smuggling Plan

Justice Minister Ester Molné urged patience on Monday with the government's anti-smuggling plan at Pas de la Casa, insisting that its measures are being implemented progressively and demand mid- to long-term assessment.

During the swearing-in ceremony for the 58th police promotion in Andorra la Vella, Molné admitted the initiative has not yet achieved full effectiveness. She stressed that the shock plan remains underway, with results expected only after time allows new legal and operational tools to take hold. A core element is the recruitment of 15 new police officers dedicated to the border area—a process that closed midday with around 30 applicants, according to Police Director General Bruno Lasne. "This is the most important measure we have in motion right now," Molné said, noting the hires will form a specialised unit focused exclusively on smuggling.

Molné highlighted additional steps, including an imminent parliamentary review of Penal Code reforms that introduce specific smuggling offences. The government has also just updated regulations on sensitive goods, with their effects still pending evaluation. She explained the plan's current limitations as a natural outcome of its phased rollout. "These are measures that must be executed over the long term," she added.

Lasne confirmed ongoing reinforcements at the site, drawing from the technical intervention unit, citizen security unit, and borders and immigration unit. These serve as a temporary measure until the dedicated team becomes operational, paving the way for a more robust response.