Neighbour's swift action prevents squatters taking over Camposol property

Local police called out to halt illegal occupation after timely alert by neighbour

Mazarrón’s Policia Local has acted swiftly to halt a suspected case of squatting on the Camposol urbanisation after receiving a report from a neighbour that a nearby house had been occupied illegally.

Fortunately the alert came within the first 48 hours of the property being entered so positive action could be taken by the police officers, who took control of the premises and placed security tape across the entrance, signifying that the property was under their control and surveillance.

The Police also called in a service crew from Mazarrón Council to secure the property until the owner arrives by welding part of the reja (security grill) on the door.

Incidents of squatting are an ever-increasing problem in the Region of Murcia along with the rest of Spain, resulting in the regional government passing new laws giving more power to the security forces when a case of unlawful occupation occurs.

The most important factor in gaining a fast resolution to a squatting occurrence is the reporting of the crime within the first 48 hours: this gives the police more power to act in ejecting the intruder, whereas any delay in reporting the crime over the initial 48 hours could result in the matter having to be dealt with through the courts, which is expensive and can take years.

The regional government of Murcia has published two guides regarding the squatter problem, one giving guidance on reporting an incident and the other on measures that can be taken to prevent illegal occupation. In the first instance any suspected occupation should be reported immediately to the Police on 112 or 091 092 062. The regional government also have an anonymous reporting route available on 968 377 000 or email alertaokupa@carm.es

REMEMBER  - the first 48 hours are crucial!

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