Marbella, Spain is reportedly facing issues with ‘problem behaviour’ in one popular tourist area
Marbella, Spain is reportedly facing issues with ‘problem behaviour’ in one popular tourist area(Image: Antonio Luis Martinez/Moment RF)
A popular Spanish holiday hotspot is vowing to crackdown on ‘problem behaviour’ in a major security rollout.
Marbella is known for its sandy beaches and hot temperatures, with Brits flocking in the thousands to the city every year – whether it’s for a family holiday or to dance the night away.
However, most recently problems with behaviour along its Costa del Sol resorts has been reported, with a major security scheme now being launched between July and August in response.
The operation is said to be targeting those with loose dogs, unauthorised street sellers and individuals with out-of-control jet skis in a bid to crackdown on issues in the area.
READ MORE: Majorca ‘ruined’ as holiday destination with UK tourists facing ‘sad reality’
Illegal street vendors have been a point of contention over recent years in many Spanish hotspots, with figures showing 18,000 fake items were seized from unauthorised street sellers between January and October 2024.
But Marbella isn’t the only Spanish destination cracking down, as Palma in Majorca has also been issuing charges for those caught buying unlicensed products, as well as those who have been selling them.
Other issues in Marbella include loose dogs, which have been a point of concern in the area due to the high levels of pet abandonment, the Express said.
Jet ski problems have also been recognised as ones to be aware of during the summer months, due to one tourist reportedly dying last year after colliding with a boat in Marbella while on one of the skis.
The 26-year-old man was alive when he was rescued, but after emergency services attended to the young person, he died shortly after.
It is accidents like these which have led authorities to concluding more must be done to monitor the safety of those carrying out activities as such.
Marbella’s security rollout will ensure there are eight police officers on beaches in the area on six quad bikes with direct orders to monitor beach regulations.
José Eduardo Díaz, the councillor in charge of the latest scheme, explained it aims to ensure there is “comprehensive coverage from early morning until night” during the peak of the holiday season.
He added: “It’s a coordinated effort by the emergency department so that both residents and visitors can enjoy our coastline with the utmost peace of mind.”
READ MORE: Traveller flags what ‘SSSS’ on boarding pass means – and why you don’t want it
As well as the introduction of the police unit, a squad of 50 lifeguards and two ambulances will be involved in the safety initiative.
One of Marbella’s most popular beaches, La Bajadilla, will also see 20 Civil Protection Officers on duty over July and August of this year.
Officials will be using the likes of buggies and quad bikes to be able to efficiently provide rescue aid, in addition to being able to attend medical emergencies swiftly.
A team of 28 firefighters will also be carrying out safety inspections, while an expert Fire Service water rescue unit, will provide support for emergencies between the times of 8am to 9pm.