One of the largest documented operations against an illegal settlement in the Canary Islands has been carried out in Arona, with dozens of homes inspected, nearly 100 people identified and several properties sealed off.
The large-scale operation took place on Tuesday in the Malpaso-Buzanada area, near the Guaza junction of the TF-1 motorway, known locally as Los Vivitos, and was coordinated by Arona Town Hall's Urban Planning Department.
The operation began at 7:00am following months of planning and involved officers from the Local Police, National Police and Guardia Civil, alongside municipal officials.
Its main aim was to support ongoing administrative and planning enforcement action against the unauthorised settlement, identify residents, assess the area and strengthen urban planning controls.
The settlement has been divided into six sectors (A to F) to help authorities manage the scale and complexity of the site.
Results of the operation
During the operation, officers:
The environmental investigations are being led by PAPRONA, the Guardia Civil's specialist environmental protection unit.
Ongoing investigation
Arona Town Hall described the operation as one of the largest of its kind ever documented in the Canary Islands and said it forms part of a wider effort to restore planning control and tackle illegal development within the municipality.
Authorities have not released further details about the person arrested or confirmed whether additional enforcement action will follow. Investigations remain ongoing.
