A scandal has erupted in Elche involving the head of the Arenales del Sol district: the municipality has immediately suspended Alejandro García Raduán after receiving a complaint of sexual harassment. The decision was signed by the mayor, Pablo Ruz, in the middle of the day, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable for public officials.
The complaint and details of the incident
According to the city administration, the dismissal was prompted by an official complaint filed by a resident of Arenales del Sol with the police. The statement alleges that on April 22, 2026, on San Bartolomé de Tirajana Avenue, the official started a conversation with the woman, initially discussing her interest in calisthenics and the opening of a sports park. However, according to the complainant, the discussion unexpectedly shifted to degrading and sexual remarks.
Among other things, the complaint states that García Raduán allegedly said he could save the woman’s number in his phone under an insulting nickname, which made her feel humiliated. Additionally, according to the complainant, the official continued to make comments about her appearance, suggested she change her image for popularity on social media, and discussed the possibility of creating content for adult platforms and organizing photoshoots on the beach.
Authorities’ response and progress of the investigation
Case materials indicate that one of the incidents occurred in the presence of a witness during a discussion about a navel piercing—at that time, the woman received support from the bystander, who reprimanded the official. The complaint emphasizes that the situation unfolded under evident inequality: the district head had administrative authority and was significantly older, which, according to the complainant, made it difficult for her to respond.
That same day, two hours after the incident, a local police patrol car arrived at the scene, as recorded in the report. The complaint has been accepted for review, and a preliminary investigation is underway. Requested actions include verifying the complainant’s testimony, interviewing García Raduán as a suspect, and questioning the witness.
City Hall’s position and the social context
The municipality confirmed that after receiving information about the complaint, the district head was immediately suspended from duty. Mayor Pablo Ruz publicly condemned any inappropriate behavior among officials, stressing that such incidents are incompatible with work in local government.
The scandal in Elche is unfolding against the backdrop of other high-profile events in the region. Recently, authorities in Valencia were in the spotlight over the seizure of a 112 emergency service recording, sparking an investigation and raising questions about the transparency of officials’ actions— the details of this case caused a wide public outcry.
