This measure ends the overnight waits that these youths previously faced at police stations or the Torrecárdenas Hospital while awaiting official age confirmation. Previously, the regional administration did not take custody until the Public Prosecutor's Office validated medical results, a process that could take several hours.
The procedural change follows an investigation by the Andalusian Ombudsman, which identified a lack of coordination between the involved institutions. The office found that the previous practice, which forced minors to remain in unsuitable facilities during the night, violated current child protection regulations.
From now on, the State Security Forces and Corps will directly notify the Child Protection Service as soon as an unaccompanied minor is located. The goal is to provide immediate assistance, food, and rest, regardless of the time required for bureaucratic procedures and radiological tests.
