A significant police operation unfolded early Wednesday morning in the coastal town of Manilva, Málaga, as the Guardia Civil launched a crackdown on a drug trafficking network operating within a squatted urbanisation.
Around 50 officers from various units were involved in the operation. It was supported by advanced technology, including drones and sniffer dogs, as they targeted the Royal Manilva residential complex. The operation commenced at approximately 7.00 am, focusing on the Royal Manilva urbanisation. There, a group of squatters had been illegally residing for some time. The squatters are suspected of being involved in the local drug trade, prompting the extensive police response. Witnesses reported the presence of drones surveying the area before dawn, signaling the start of the operation.
Initial reports from the Guardia Civil confirmed that at least two individuals were arrested in the early stages. As the investigation progresses there is a possibility of further detentions. The operation included a thorough inspection of several properties within the urbanisation. These have been occupied illegally and are believed to be linked to the drug trafficking activities.
Impact on the community
The Royal Manilva complex is one of many housing developments left incomplete or underutilised following Spain’s property crisis in 2008. Many of the properties, taken over by a bank, were either left unfinished or offered for rent with an option to buy. Unfortunately, the lack of adequate security led to the unlawful occupation of several homes by individuals who reportedly caused significant damage to the properties.
Residents of the area have long expressed their frustration with the situation. They mentioned ongoing disturbances and a general decline in the quality of life due to the squatters’ activities. The events of Wednesday morning brought a temporary sense of relief to these residents. Many of them were awakened by the sounds of the police breaking down doors and issuing commands to the occupants.