Drone catches two kids starting fires on Benalmadena mountain

Local police in Benalmadena have identified two youngsters as the suspected culprits behind repeated deliberate fires on Monte Calamorro, overlooking the town. Officers caught the pair redhanded and in the act during a targeted operation that relied on drone technology for quick detection.

Police operation catches red-handed suspects at scene

Agents from Benalmadena Council and local police located the kids right next to several still-smouldering campfires. Items including matches and lighters filled their backpacks. This discovery came early on Saturday, July 18, when thermal imaging from a drone spotted the individuals on the mountain.

Officers responded immediately and took the minors into custody directly. The pair later confessed to their involvement in the incidents. Authorities then transferred them to facilities of the National Police, where they stayed until parents arrived following standard procedures.

Prevention measures proving effective

Benalmadena Local Police had maintained a dedicated fire prevention effort for several weeks. This initiative combined traditional patrols with advanced tools, particularly the drone unit. Repeated flights over the area allowed officers to monitor remote spots that prove difficult to reach otherwise.

The operation intensified after reports of initial fires on Monte Calamorro. Thermal cameras played a key role in the detection during windy conditions that heightened the overall danger. Such weather can turn small ignitions into major blazes quickly, especially during peak summer risk periods for forest fires across the region.

Mayor praises rapid response and tech use

Juan Antonio Lara, mayor of Benalmadena, commended the local police for their actions. He said that the intervention likely prevented greater harm to Monte Calamorro and the nearby Cañada del Lobo area. This location holds substantial environmental importance and serves as a popular spot for mountain hikers.

Lara also stressed the value of integrating modern technology into policing. Such approaches strengthen operational capabilities and boost safety across the town. The drone programme forms part of wider efforts to address challenges in challenging terrain.

Continued vigilance planned

Benalmadena authorities intend to continue the preventive measures through the coming months of high fire risk. Drone deployments and other innovations will remain central to these activities. This strategy enables coverage of extensive zones with greater efficiency than ground-based methods alone.

Town officials call on everyone to exercise utmost care regarding fire hazards. Citizens play an essential role through vigilance and by reporting any suspicious behaviour as quickly as possible. Collaboration between police and the community strengthens protection for natural spaces that many enjoy.