Mayor Demands Permanent Guardia Civil Reinforcement for Torrevieja

Torrevieja Mayor Eduardo Dolón has persistently called for a permanent increase in Guardia Civil personnel in the city, arguing that current staffing levels have remained relatively stagnant for over a decade despite significant population growth. This call came in response to claims by the Government’s representative in Alicante, Manuel Pineda, that crime rates had decreased during the first months of 2026.

However, Dolón cautioned that a single quarter's data should not overshadow the broader trends from the entire year of 2025.

According to official Interior Ministry statistics, Torrevieja recorded 10,089 criminal offences in 2025, compared to 9,316 in 2024—an 8.3 percent increase. Dolón emphasized that these figures represent the complete year's data, not just preliminary or provisional numbers. He argued that comparing early 2026's figures with the 2025 annual total distorts the critical issue at hand: whether Torrevieja's current officer count is adequate.

Dolón stressed that his demand for more Guardia Civil officers is not a criticism of the officers currently serving but rather a reflection of the need for additional resources. He commended their professionalism, dedication, and the coordination they maintain with the Local Police, but highlighted the structural staffing shortage that cannot be bridged by seasonal reinforcements alone.

"Torrevieja does not require additional officers for just a few weeks," he stated. "What it requires is a stable and appropriately staffed force that accurately reflects the city's population, size, and high levels of tourism activity."

The mayor underscored the necessity of greater police visibility to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors. He contrasted the need for permanent reinforcements with the council’s own initiatives, such as expanding its Local Police recruitment program to 63 new positions, aiming to have 200 active officers by the end of the council term.

Dolón noted that while the council is making significant financial and organizational efforts, the Spanish Government must also contribute equally by increasing Guardia Civil personnel.

He called on Pineda to take direct action with the Interior Ministry to ensure a stable, long-term increase in Guardia Civil staffing rather than relying on temporary summer deployments. Dolón posed the essential question to Pineda: does the Spanish Government believe Torrevieja has enough Guardia Civil officers? He reiterated the city's demand for the necessary reinforcement and pledged to continue advocating for the increased resources the city requires.