Estepona, Sunday 21 July 2025 — A man was wounded in a violent shootout outside an Aldi supermarket in the Atalaya-Isdabe area of Estepona on Sunday night, as gunmen from two vehicles exchanged more than two dozen shots in what police suspect is part of a growing Turkish gang conflict on the Costa del Sol.
The incident occurred just after 9:30 p.m., with at least 25 rounds fired in the supermarket car park. A local resident, not involved in the confrontation, was hit by a stray bullet. Emergency crews stabilised him on the scene before taking him to Hospital Costa del Sol. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Police quickly arrived, sealed off the area, and launched an investigation. No arrests have yet been made.
⚠️ Ties to Bazlama? Locals Report Gang Activity at Popular Turkish Restaurant
The shooting took place only steps away from the recently opened Turkish restaurant Bazlama, which has been quietly raising eyebrows among residents and shop owners. Several locals have reported frequent visits by suspected Turkish underworld figures, suggesting the restaurant may be a meeting point for organised crime.
While there is no official confirmation of a connection, Sunday’s violence has intensified speculation that the gangland feud may be spilling out from behind closed doors — and onto the streets.
A nearby shop owner commented:
“We’ve seen high-end cars pull up, men in designer clothes speaking Turkish, watching the road like bodyguards. Something’s not right.”
Costa del Sol Violence Continues to Rise
The incident is the latest in a string of violent attacks this year. At least 10 gang-related shootings have been reported in 2025 along the southern coast of Spain, many involving drug trafficking networks with international ties.
Law enforcement continues to operate under “Plan Costa del Sol,” aimed at disrupting organised crime. However, the public is increasingly uneasy about the spread of violence into everyday places — like supermarkets and restaurants.
Investigation Ongoing
National Police are examining CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses. All leads — including potential gang affiliations and links to Bazlama — are being pursued.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police confidentially.
📰 For updates, visit www.costaspainnews.es