The environmental organisation Verdemar Ecologistas en Acción reports that, following the complaint filed with the Provincial Public Prosecutor’s Office in Málaga over a possible crime against historical heritage in the protected area surrounding the Yacimnto Arqueológico del Castillo de la Duquesa (archaeological site), declared a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC) by Decree 89/2005 of 29 March, the Public Prosecutor’s Office has agreed to open an investigation.
In its decree, the Public Prosecutor’s Office states that all necessary steps will be taken to clarify the events reported and to verify their criminal significance, both in terms of whether they could constitute a criminal offence and with regard to the alleged responsibility of those involved.
Verdemar’s initial complaint warned of geotechnical surveys being carried out on plot L-1 of the Plan Parcial El Hacho, Phase 2, which could constitute the covert start of a development in an area of archaeological protection. More than 140 luxury homes and an archaeological museum, promoted by Grupo ABU, have been publicly announced for this plot, even though no full archaeological excavation has been carried out and there is no express cultural authorisation for its use for development.
The work had been authorised by the Junta de Andalucía under file IN250168, which led Verdemar to ask the Public Prosecutor’s Office to investigate not only the developer and the Junta, but also Manilva Town Hall, over its possible involvement, knowledge or permissiveness regarding an action that could breach the Andalusian Historical Heritage Act.
«The opening of an investigation confirms the seriousness of the events reported and the need to clarify possible responsibilities. It is a decisive step towards ensuring that archaeological heritage is protected from development interests», a Verdemar spokesperson has said.
Verdemar recalls its initial requests:
- Immediate protection of the Castillo de la Duquesa archaeological site.
- Transparency in the actions of the administrations involved.
- A rigorous investigation to determine responsibilities and prevent impunity.
Verdemar reaffirms its commitment to the defence of natural and cultural heritage and welcomes the decision of the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Málaga,
