A British tourist has reportedly been detained after an alarming incident at one of Benidorm’s busiest beaches left holidaymakers shocked and frightened.
According to local reports, the 44-year-old man was staying at a hotel in the Costa Blanca resort before the alleged disturbance unfolded at Poniente Beach, a popular spot for families and visitors. He has since been taken to hospital under police guard while awaiting a psychiatric evaluation.
The man was reportedly detained on suspicion of attempted homicide, wounding and threats after witnesses claimed he became involved in a terrifying seaside incident. Local media alleged he first targeted a Norwegian woman, 34, who had been swimming with her boyfriend.
Reports claim the woman’s partner managed to intervene before the situation escalated further near the shore. The Briton then allegedly approached a young Spanish child, prompting the child’s mother and nearby sunbathers to rush in as panic spread across the beach.
A lifeguard reportedly restrained the man until police arrived, bringing the frightening scene under control. The incident is said to have stunned tourists who had been enjoying a normal afternoon at the resort before the sudden chaos erupted.
After his arrest, local reports claimed the man behaved aggressively while in custody and was later moved to Villajoyosa Hospital for medical reasons. He is now said to be under police guard as authorities continue to assess the situation.
The arrest was reportedly made by local police connected to Benidorm Town Hall before the case was passed to Spain’s National Police. As of the latest report, neither force had issued a formal public comment about the incident.
The case has quickly drawn attention in the UK because Benidorm remains one of the most popular holiday destinations for British tourists. For many families who witnessed the incident, what began as a sunny beach day reportedly turned into a disturbing moment they will not forget.
Authorities are expected to continue investigating what happened, while the detained man remains in hospital pending further evaluation.
