The Calafell City Council has initiated actions against unauthorized street vending on its promenade, issuing citations to three buyers and one vendor during an operation conducted this Saturday. This measure follows the placement of signs warning that the maximum fine for top manta buyers could reach 20,000 euros, a figure considered high by the municipal opposition.
The local government justifies the maximum fine amount based on the Catalan Government's Trade Law, which allows for this sum for the purchase of unauthorized street-vended products, and emphasizes that the sanctioning authority lies with the City Council. However, it is noted that the law does not set a specific amount for each transaction, only the maximum.
The Councilor for Security, Marc Casellas, explained that no merchandise was seized during this operation to avoid potential public order issues, as vendors often defend their goods, which can lead to tension. Municipal legal services will follow a criterion of imposing two-thirds of the maximum possible, approximately 13,333 euros, although the final amount will depend on the processing and resolution of the file, which is appealable.
The presence of street vendors on the promenade has been a recurring topic of debate in the municipal plenary, with opposition groups demanding increased surveillance. Casellas assured that pressure is being applied, but pointed out that decisive intervention against product storage facilities requires capabilities that the municipality does not possess.
