Adeje Launches Specialized Police Unit to Tackle Illegal Activities on Beaches and Streets

The Adeje Town Council has taken a significant step in enhancing public safety by establishing a new police unit dedicated to combating illegal street vending and unauthorized services on local beaches and promenades. This initiative, which commenced this month, aims to create a safer environment for both residents and tourists in the popular resort area.

Enhancing Safety and Public Image

This new police unit is part of a broader strategy aimed at improving public safety, maintaining order, and enhancing the overall image of Adeje as a premier tourist destination. The area has seen a troubling rise in unlicensed commercial activities, particularly in high-traffic tourist spots, which has raised concerns among local authorities and residents alike.

Between January 1 and October 27, 2025, local authorities reported a total of 17 incidents related to illegal street trading and eight cases involving unauthorized services. These services included unlicensed massages, hair braiding, and street performances, which have become increasingly common in tourist-heavy areas. Additionally, two investigations were initiated for potential industrial property violations, following the seizure of a large quantity of counterfeit goods. These counterfeit items included jewelry, sunglasses, sportswear, handbags, and wallets, all of which pose a risk not only to consumers but also to the reputation of Adeje as a safe and reputable destination.

Continuous Beach Surveillance

The newly established Beach Unit will ensure a consistent police presence along the coastline, particularly in well-frequented areas such as Bahía del Duque, Playa de Troya, El Bobo, La Pinta, Fañabé, and Avenida Rafael Puig Lluvina. Officers assigned to this unit will be responsible for addressing administrative infractions, illegal occupation of public spaces, and any potential criminal activities that may arise in these popular locations.

Mercedes Vargas Delgado, the Councillor for Security in Adeje, highlighted the proactive nature of this initiative. She stated, “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.” This statement underscores the unit’s commitment to not only enforcing the law but also fostering a safer environment for everyone who visits or resides in Adeje.

Bolstering Law Enforcement Efforts

In response to the growing demands of a significant influx of tourists, Adeje has made substantial investments in its police force. Over the past few years, the town has added 30 new officers to its ranks, a move designed to effectively manage the population surge that can see the town’s numbers triple during peak tourist seasons. This expansion is part of a comprehensive effort to ensure the safety and security of both residents and visitors alike.

The Local Police have also engaged in collaborative operations with various law enforcement agencies, including the National Police, Guardia Civil, and the Canarian Police. These joint efforts have proven effective, leading to interventions in protected areas, such as La Caleta’s Scientific Interest Site, where environmental agents have worked alongside police to address illegal activities. These coordinated actions have resulted in drug-related arrests and the dismantling of illegal cannabis associations, further demonstrating the commitment of local authorities to maintaining law and order.

Key points

• Adeje Town Council has launched a new police unit to combat illegal street vending and unauthorized services.
• The initiative aims to enhance public safety and improve the resort’s image.
• From January to October 2025, police recorded 17 illegal street trading incidents and eight unauthorized service cases.
• Investigations were opened for industrial property violations due to counterfeit goods confiscated.
• The Beach Unit will patrol popular locations along the coastline.
• Adeje has increased its police force by adding 30 new officers to handle tourist influx.
• Joint operations with various police agencies have led to drug-related arrests and the closure of illegal cannabis associations.