In Puerto Banús, a popular Costa del Sol resort, a man was fatally shot in front of shocked British holidaymakers.
The 25-year-old victim was shot at close range while sitting on a cafe terrace smoking a cigarette and talking on his phone. Surveillance footage suggests the assailant, disguised as a tourist in a baseball cap, approached the victim and fired multiple shots, even after the victim fell to the ground.
Despite efforts by medical staff at Costa del Sol Hospital, the victim succumbed to his injuries. Police have confirmed the arrest of a 38-year-old man in connection with the shooting.
A spokesperson for the National Police in Malaga, responsible for the Marbella region, stated, “A 38-year-old man has been arrested in relation to the fatal shooting in Puerto Banús. The investigation is ongoing, and further details cannot be provided at this time.”
Authorities have not disclosed the nationalities of the victim and the suspect. Unconfirmed reports suggest that both individuals may hold Swedish passports, with speculation about the gunman being of Afghan descent.
The incident occurred around 1:30 pm local time in a busy Puerto Banús, frequented by tourists and golfers from the UK enjoying the renowned coastal courses. The shooter reportedly arrived by car before targeting the victim. The victim’s death was confirmed at approximately 8:15 pm local time.
Recent summers have seen an increase in shootings in Puerto Banús and nearby areas, prompting significant police operations, including raids on upscale clubs. The region has faced criticism for its perceived lawlessness. Notably, last year, footballer Erling Haaland was involved in a police operation at a Marbella beach club.
Organised crime, particularly involving Swedish contract killers, has contributed to escalating violence in regions like the Costa del Sol and Marbella. Notable arrests were made following bomb incidents in 2018, with authorities linking the crimes to a Swedish criminal organisation with ties to Spain and other European countries.
Additionally, the presence of the Mocro Maffia, a notorious criminal group, has posed challenges in the Costa del Sol. A 17-year-old Belgian associated with the group was apprehended for allegedly traveling to Fuengirola to carry out an assassination. This case marks the first instance in Spain where an underage hitman is a primary suspect.
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