Eight-year battle against Marbella brothel

Police finally raid the club but residents fear reprisals

By David Eade

Police photograph of a brothel raid 

Some eight years after local residents first complained about a Marbella brothel, police have finally taken action.

It was in 2001 that residents of the Hacienda Cortés in Marbella made a formal complaint against the club Oasis, previously called Venus, which operates as a brothel in their midst.

Now the National Police have raided the premises and arrested two men and a woman for alleged people trafficking. It is the first police operation against the club in almost a decade, after a blind eye was turned to its activities during the GIL era, say critics.

Since the club first started, residents have reported that some 30 prostitutes from South America, North Africa or Eastern Europe have been living at the site, which is registered as a small hotel. It is also alleged that the building has been enlarged without the required licences.

Over the years the residents have carried out investigations into the club's standing and believe it has no town planning permissions or licences. In addition to their complaints to the police, they have reported the brothel twice to the fire brigade because of the risk caused by gas bottles.

It is understood that in the police raid cocaine and other drugs were found, as well as various documents. It is also alleged that the owners and receptionist kept half of the money earned by the prostitutes that worked at the club.

Still open

Residents living near the club have complained of late-night delinquency including drug dealing, vandalism and violence between criminals. However, the plight of the residents has not been solved, as the club was open for business after the arrests and they say they now fear reprisals.

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