A British woman has been arrested on Spain's Costa del Sol after her eight-month-old baby tested positive for cocaine during a medical examination. The incident unfolded when police responded to reports of a couple lighting a bonfire under a large tree near Marbella.
Police Intervention and Discovery
Officers arrived at Cabopino Beach, where they found the 25-year-old British national and her 43-year-old Spanish partner camping in a tent by the dunes. The couple had an uninsured car parked nearby with an expired MOT certificate, raising immediate concerns.
Concerns Over Living Conditions
After observing the family's living arrangements, police became worried about the baby's welfare and suspected possible malnutrition. They decided to take the infant to Las Albarizas Health Centre in Marbella for a thorough check-up.
The child was subsequently transferred to Costa del Sol Hospital for further evaluation. Medical staff confirmed the baby boy was underweight for his age, and a urine test revealed the presence of cocaine in his system.
Medical Response and Legal Proceedings
The infant was admitted to a paediatric unit as doctors awaited additional test results. Meanwhile, local reports indicated the mother had missed several scheduled appointments at the same paediatric unit over recent months.
Both parents were detained and spent the night in cells at Marbella Police Station. They are expected to appear in court, with the hearing taking place behind closed doors as per standard Spanish legal procedure for pre-trial matters.
Child Welfare and Investigation
An investigating judge is anticipated to release the couple on bail while the probe continues. However, the child will be placed in temporary emergency care pending decisions about his long-term future.
Spanish authorities have not yet issued any official statement regarding the case. The incident highlights concerns about child welfare and substance exposure in vulnerable situations.
