VCOC

Posted in General Notices

vcocpostersmall3 VCOC stands for Vecinos Colaborando Orihuela Costa which is the equivalent of Neighbourhood Watch.

The authorities perceived it originally as a vigilante group who would take the law into their own hands. They were strongly opposed to it.

But thanks to the efforts of Mr Chris Poole from nearby La Zenia, it is now working well in this region of Spain. It has been established along a large area of the Costa Blanca; now with the full approval of local politicians and police.

The efforts of Neighbourhood Watch (in reality those of Chris Poole) has resulted in a considerable increase in the numbers of police and guardia civil officers employed locally. And most importantly -- a noticeable reduction in crime.
A professional and helpful liaison has developed between VCOC and law enforcement staff.

Pinada Golf 2 is one of a number of urbanisations who belong to VCOC. Chris Poole, and the Pinada Golf 1 and 2 Co-ordinators are former British police officers as are others in the scheme. The benefit of membership is that we can help and advise each other and pass on important information about our welfare, safety and our investment in property here. Its success largely depends on sharing information about crime when it occurs here and about people who are seen behaving suspiciously.

It is important, therefore, that any resident or guest reports any crime to the police as soon as possible and also informs the Pinada Golf 2 Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator too, including information about people who look suspicious. The Co-ordinator will try to help as much as possible with advice particularly when a crime has occured.

The Co-ordinator is Ray Ward on 0034 966 775277

Neighbourhood Watch is a great instrument for self protection without putting anyone at risk of reprisals.