Benidorm commemorates the 182nd anniversary of the Local Police with recognition of 86 officers who intervened in the DANA storm

Benidorm Local Police celebrated their 182nd anniversary today with a day of commemorative events held at the Cultural Centre. The event was attended by the city's mayor, Toni Pérez, the vast majority of the local council, the Director General of Security, Erich Vanacloig, regional deputies Manuel Pérez Fenoll and José Ramón González de Zárate, as well as representatives of the State security forces.

The day began with a canine demonstration in the lobby of the Cultural Centre, where exercises and simulations were conducted, including the detection of dangerous or prohibited substances and responses to incidents of gender-based violence or protesters intending to attack the police.

Inside, the official ceremony began with the mayor and Police Commissioner José Carlos Amorós reviewing the officers to be honoured. A total of 86 officers were recognised for their solidarity and intervention during the devastating floods that struck Valencia in October 2024. Following this, former president of the Local Police Socio-Cultural Association, Rafael Urbano, was also recognised, as was Rosario López upon her retirement.

Later, Commissioner Amorós stated in his address that this day "celebrates being part of the city's history, an inseparable part," and said he was addressing the officers "with the greatest possible pride." He also spoke about the female officers, noting that tomorrow is International Women's Day (March 8th), "who are an indispensable part of the force." "The Local Police represent approachability, public service, and security. We have more than demonstrated our competence in situations that not long ago would have seemed like science fiction," he affirmed. The commissioner also opined that "the future of Benidorm depends heavily on our daily actions, on the sense of security we foster," and therefore advocated "for the specialisation of our personnel."

Amorós pointed out that the Local Police "must be constantly updated and have a sufficient number of officers," and therefore advocated "continued investment in the Local Police because it means investing in security and tourism." In his opinion, "we have many challenges ahead, and that's why I intend to work wholeheartedly, without losing sight of our close relationship with the people." "Today is a day of special recognition because you are an example of solidarity, as you demonstrated during the DANA storm. So, may this 182nd anniversary be an impetus to keep moving forward," he concluded.

Moments later, the official commemorative coin was presented to Pablo Escribano, a corporal in the Spanish Army, and José Ramón Nieto, Chief Commissioner of Villarreal, "for their outstanding contributions to Benidorm Local Police." Awards were also presented to the local police chiefs of Paiporta and Albal, Manuel Ocaña and Rafael Blasco, for their commendable work during the 2024 DANA storm. Following this, awards were given to the 86 officers from Benidorm who were deployed to the province of Valencia in response to the storm.

The mayor concluded the speeches by highlighting that as early as 1844, “this was a city with a vision of what was to come.” Regarding the local police, he stated that “they have been directly involved in the milestones of this city and every year are the element closest to the citizens, tourists, and visitors. That is why today we recognise their work and their daily efforts in traffic, emergencies, events, and public safety.” He added, “The local police must be dedicated to service.”

Toni Pérez also highlighted “the capacity for adaptation to the new challenges that time has presented to this force” and congratulated “all those recognised today for their service and professionalism,” especially “the 86 officers who responded to the devastating storm in Valencia” and “the police chiefs of the towns affected by that tragic event.”

Finally, the mayor also wanted to “recognise” the officers’ families for their support and understanding, which are always necessary and fundamental,” adding that this anniversary allows us to look back, but also to move forward with determination.” The ceremony concluded with the playing of the anthems of Benidorm, the Valencian Community, and Spain.