The Council of Tenerife has initiated 25 proceedings for violations in the Montaña Pelada Natural Monument (Granadilla de Abona) after complaints were received from the Canarian Police.
The incident took place last Sunday when individuals were found camping illegally, driving motor vehicles, and lighting fires in the protected natural area.
Yesterday, the Canarian Police reported on Twitter (X) that, “Last Sunday, we visited the protected natural area of Montaña Pelada and filed 25 complaints for illegal camping, lighting fires, and improper waste disposal.”
Last Sunday we went to the protected natural area of Montaña Pelada #GranadillaDeAbonawhere we filed 25 complaints for illegal camping, lighting fires and generating different types of waste.#Tenerife pic.twitter.com/ryVEntmkmL
— CG Canarian Police (@CGPCanaria) July 30, 2024
Jose Miguel Ruano, the Second Vice President and Minister of the Presidency, stated today that the Department of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security, and Emergencies has initiated the necessary administrative proceedings “to penalise those who have committed these violations.”
“Unacceptable behaviours, such as camping or lighting fires, were observed despite an explicit prohibition given the circumstances. Fines can range from 6,000 euros to 400 euros, depending on the offence,” Ruano explained.
Ruano highlighted that those responsible for starting fires could face a fine of 1,000 euros. If the fire results in damages, they may face criminal liability. He also expressed gratitude for the efforts of the State security forces such as the Civil Guard – notably the Seprona -, the Canary Islands Police, and the Local Police.
The Montaña Pelada Natural Monument is comprised of a volcanic cone formed by hydrovolcanism, resulting from the interaction between a volcano’s magma and water masses. It features a volcanic caldera nearly one kilometre in diameter and houses a preserved fossil dune that reflects historical sea level changes. The area also boasts remnants of interior cardonal, coastal sweet tabaibal, and characteristic ravine communities.
