Residents around Metelkova's despair: published photos show how bad it is

Residents near Metelkova Street in Ljubljana have expressed alarm over the deteriorating conditions in their neighborhood, with recent photographs shared online revealing disturbing scenes of drug use and homelessness. The area, known for its high level of insecurity due to the presence of a methadone clinic and an asylum center, has long been a point of concern for local residents who question why authorities have not taken more decisive action. These images, posted on social media by one of the locals, show individuals under the influence of drugs during daylight hours, including homeless people entering apartment buildings and sleeping in hallways. The photos depict a chaotic scene, with residents having placed notices warning against using the outdoor areas for bathroom purposes and urging neighbors to keep doors locked to prevent drug users from urinating near water fountains. Additional images show used and discarded needles, highlighting the extent of the issue. Local police have acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating they are aware of the problems related to illegal drug use and are conducting preventive activities aimed at stopping and uncovering illegal drug trafficking and related offenses. They emphasize that there is zero tolerance for such criminal acts. The area around Kotnikova Street in central Ljubljana has become emblematic of these challenges. Police reports indicate that while organized groups engaged in drug-related crimes are rare, individual cases of possession and sale of prohibited substances are frequent. Law enforcement agencies conduct enhanced surveillance, including civilian patrols, and collaborate with specialized units such as the special unit, mounted police, and canine units, along with a dedicated team focused on preventing street crime. Statistical data from this year shows that 137 administrative proceedings were initiated regarding violations of the law on production and trade in prohibited substances. Additionally, four criminal acts involving enabling the consumption of prohibited substances or unauthorized materials were recorded, alongside 21 criminal acts related to unauthorized production and trade. Among other criminal acts, thefts motivated by greed dominate, particularly violent crimes. Questions have also been raised with the Municipality of Ljubljana, though responses are still pending. Candidates for the upcoming autumn municipal elections have been asked how they would address the issue. Aleš Primc stated he expects the police and prosecutor’s office to consistently pursue drug suppliers. He emphasized that the municipality's priority will be educating children and youth to avoid drugs, stressing that they must understand the dangers drugs pose to life, families, and financial stability, as well as the rise in other types of crime such as break-ins and prostitution. Urška Klakočar Zupančič mentioned that addressing this issue will be part of her broader campaign program. Candidate Luka Mesec of the Left Party did not respond to the inquiry.