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Date Published: 26/02/2024

Dozens of youngsters destroy protected Spanish sand dunes in search of buried treasure

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A group of YouTubers buried a briefcase containing 1,000 euros in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria

Dozens of youngsters destroy protected Spanish sand dunes in search of buried treasure

In a recent advertising campaign gone wrong, dozens of young people excavated the protected space of the dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, searching for a briefcase containing 1,000 euros buried by three YouTubers. The campaign aimed to promote a concert, but its methods have sparked controversy and concern for the environment.

The influencers behind the campaign took to social network ‘X’ to leave clues for their followers, inviting them to locate the briefcase. They even recommended the tools needed for the task, suggesting that participants bring shovels. The challenge consisted of three videos with three clues, and the final video provided coordinates for the treasure hunters.

However, the excitement of finding the buried treasure came at a cost. The Maspalomas Dunes Natural Reserve, where the briefcase was buried, is a protected area, and the fines for trespassing range between 150 and 300 euros. The reserve covers the entire dune territory and has three delimited areas: general use, restricted use, and exclusion zone.

Ya veréis lo que queda mañana de las Dunas de Maspalomas ( Reserva Natural Protegida)...poco nos pasa para lo que merecemos 🤦🏻‍♀️ pic.twitter.com/6K5shIsNAF
— Laura (@Rodraedo) February 25, 2024

The environmental impact of the excavation has been significant, with many young people digging in the sand of the dunes in search of the briefcase. This has led to concerns about the damage caused to the fragile ecosystem of the reserve, which is home to a variety of plant species, some of which are endemic to the island.

The Department of Environment of Gran Canaria has launched an investigation into the shocking incident. Investigators have collected materials disseminated on social networks and conducted an inspection visit to the affected site. Environmental officers are also preparing a formal complaint which will be escalated to the Prosecutor's Office if criminal damage is discovered.

The organisers of the campaign now face potential legal consequences, including fines and criminal charges.

In other news: Metal fragments found in Lidl and Aldi cookies in Spain

Image: @Rodraedo

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