Police have confiscated ready-to-drink mojitos, cocktails, beers and soft drinks during a crackdown on illegal beach vendors in Malaga.
The operation took place on June 9 at La Malagueta beach, where seven people were reported for allegedly selling food and drinks without the necessary licences or health controls.
Officers seized seven prepared mojitos, three other cocktails and a tray of cut fruit that were ready to be sold to beachgoers.
The haul also included seven cans of beer, seven soft drinks, eight bottles of water and various utensils used to prepare and serve the beverages.
Authorities said one of their main concerns was the lack of proper refrigeration and food safety measures.
With temperatures soaring on the Costa del Sol, drinks and food sold directly on the beach without adequate storage can pose a health risk to consumers.
The operation forms part of the Local Police’s summer surveillance campaign aimed at tackling illegal trading along Malaga’s coastline, protecting public health and ensuring beaches remain accessible to visitors.
Officers also targeted the unauthorised occupation of public beach space linked to the activity.
According to police, vendors were using beach equipment to establish makeshift sales points, store products and reserve areas of sand for commercial use.
During the operation, officers confiscated 19 parasols, several beach chairs and a blanket.
Police said some of the umbrellas were allegedly being used not only to conceal stock but also to rent out beach space to tourists.
Under Malaga’s beach regulations, the unauthorised sale of food and drink on the coastline is classified as a serious offence.
Those found guilty can face fines ranging from €300 to €3,000, with the final amount depending on factors such as repeat offending, intent and the impact on other beach users.
Local Police say similar operations will continue throughout the summer as authorities attempt to curb illegal trading, prevent the misuse of public space and ensure food and drink sold on Malaga’s beaches meet basic health and safety standards.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
