The Valencian Antifraud Agency (AVAF) has decided to dismiss the complaint filed by Vox concerning alleged irregularities in the contracting of the controversial red-light camera traffic light installed on a street in Canet d'en Berenguer's beach area. This device generated numerous fines of 200 euros and the loss of four driving license points, sparking a strong neighborhood mobilization.
Despite the dismissal, the AVAF report indicates that there are "insufficient grounds to initiate an investigative action." However, the agency makes it clear that "malpractices" occurred throughout the entire procedure, from the award to the execution and settlement of the contract. The management is described as "manifestly inefficient," and "insufficient diligence in administrative and collection management, with the risk of losing public revenue" is questioned.
Regarding the contracting process, the AVAF notes that, while within "legal parameters," "incidents in the preparation and award" were detected. It recommends that, even for minor contracts, at least three quotes from different providers should be included, which was not done in this case. The main "irregularities" are found in the execution and settlement of the contract.
Data provided by the town council reveal 2,730 reported offenses, with a total fine amount of 548,000 euros. The awarded company was expected to invoice 109,008 euros, a figure that significantly exceeds the contract's maximum limit of 15,000 euros (excluding VAT). The agency considers this situation could indicate a "fraudulent use of the minor contract" and a direct risk to municipal economic interests, as failing to process all cases could harm public coffers. The current revenue collected by the local administration is 43,400 euros.
The documentation investigated by the AVAF also shows discrepancies in the initiated cases (1,401, for a total of 280,200 euros) and the finally collected fines (413, for 43,400 euros). The company has already collected 8,744 euros and has another pending invoice of 8,624 euros, totaling 17,368 euros. The report suggests the company may have overcharged, emphasizing "deficient processing and evident risk in public economic management," as well as an "inadequate delimitation of the assumed risk."
Additionally, an "interruption in the provision of service" is noted since April 22, 2025, coinciding with neighborhood protests. An "non-compliance with the foreseen monthly invoicing" is also detected, with only two invoices issued when more were expected. The council acknowledges IT issues from the managing company, but the agency criticizes the lack of information regarding the causes, pending cases, and corrective measures to prevent the loss of sanctions.
