Adeje launches Special Police Unit to tackle illegal street and beach activities
The Adeje Town Council has announced the creation of a new unit within the Local Police focused on combating illegal street vending and unauthorised services, such as hair braiding and massages, on beaches and promenades, starting this month.
The move comes as part of a broader strategy to improve safety, public order, and the image of the resort, which has seen a rise in unlicensed commercial activity in key tourist areas.
Between 1st January and 27th October 2025, police recorded 17 reports for illegal street trading and eight for unauthorised services, including unlicensed massages, hair braiding, and street performances.
In two cases, police opened investigations for possible industrial property offences due to the large quantity of fake goods confiscated, including jewellery, sunglasses, sportswear, handbags, and wallets.
The new Beach Unit will operate permanently along the coastline, patrolling popular spots such as Bahía del Duque, Playa de Troya, El Bobo, La Pinta, Fañabé, and Avenida Rafael Puig Lluvina. Officers will address administrative violations, illegal occupation of public spaces, and potential criminal offences.
Mercedes Vargas Delgado, Adeje’s Councillor for Security, stressed that the initiative goes beyond issuing fines: “Our goal is not just to punish, but to prevent the activity, ensuring public safety and protecting the image of our destination through a coordinated approach.”
Adeje has also strengthened its police force in recent years, adding 30 new officers to cope with the significant population increase during the high tourist season, when the town’s population can triple.
The Local Police have also conducted joint operations with the National Police, Guardia Civil, and the Canarian Police, including interventions with environmental agents in protected areas like La Caleta’s Scientific Interest Site. These coordinated efforts have also led to drug-related arrests and the closure of illegal cannabis associations
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