Torremolinos has added 12 new officers to its Local Police force as part of a major drive to strengthen security and increase the number of patrols across the town.

Eleven of the officers secured their positions through an open recruitment process, while another has joined the force through a transfer from another municipality.

The new recruits formally took up their posts on Thursday after completing their training and probationary period.

Torremolinos Town Hall said the appointments mark a significant increase in staffing after around 20 years without any new officers joining the force.

Mayor Margarita del Cid and security councillor Cristobal Molina welcomed the recruits during an official ceremony.

The council said the extra officers will allow for a greater police presence on the streets, stronger preventative patrols and improved assistance for residents and visitors.

The reinforcement comes during the summer months, when the population of Torremolinos rises sharply because of the influx of tourists.

The town hall also plans to recruit another 12 officers in the near future.

Once those appointments are completed, the council says a total of 24 new officers will have joined the Local Police during the current municipal term.

The staffing increase forms part of wider investment in police resources, including the launch of an Emergency Control Centre at the Palacio de Congresos, a new computer management system, upgraded internal communications and the planned renewal of the police vehicle fleet.

Work is also underway to improve Local Police facilities.