At around 11:30 am on Christmas Eve, an incident unfolded in Puerto Banús, just outside a pharmacy near the Cristamar Mall. Initial reports suggest that a man was shot twice in the legs by two gunmen, who fired multiple bullets before fleeing the scene in a white car.
The shooting, in full view of holidaymakers and residents, caused panic at one of Marbella’s most popular tourist hubs. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with people seeking cover inside the mall. Police cordoned off the area, redirecting traffic away from one of the main entrances to Puerto Banús.
The victim, believed to be a German man of Arab origin, was quickly taken to the Costa del Sol Hospital. He reportedly sought refuge inside the mall after being hit. Emergency responders stabilised him at the scene before transporting him by stretcher to the hospital. Police have not yet confirmed his identity.
No arrests so far
As of now, no arrests have been made. Authorities are investigating whether the shooting is linked to previous incidents of violence in the area. Earlier this year, a series of shootings in Marbella and Puerto Banús prompted the early launch of the “Marbella Plan,” an initiative aimed at protecting the public from escalating gang-related violence.
A history of high-profile raids
The Marbella Plan led to a string of high-profile police operations in the region. In April, heavily armed officers raided several beach clubs, including the well-known Ocean Club in Puerto Banús. By June, these measures drew international attention when Manchester City star Erling Haaland was present during a dramatic police raid at Playa Padre, a beach club in Marbella.
Witnessing the aftermath
One of our editors was driving towards Puerto Banús at the time of the incident. Hearing sirens and seeing a long line of cars, she initially assumed it was a routine police check. But as she approached the roundabout near the Cristamar Mall, it became clear something more serious had occurred. Police cars and an ambulance were parked within a taped-off area, and officers were diverting traffic away from the scene.
This shooting has left a sombre mark on Christmas Eve in Puerto Banús, a place better known for its luxury yachts and vibrant nightlife. Local authorities continue to investigate, but for now, the resort remains on edge, with residents and visitors questioning the ongoing violence in the area.