The National Police unit attached to the Valencian Community has opened a confidential preliminary inquiry into its Elche-based chief, Fernando Gómez, following controversy over police inspections in San Fulgencio.

In March, officers carried out a two-day operation inspecting around 20 small businesses in the town centre. The action followed confirmation of a 120-euro municipal fine issued to Gómez in December after he was allegedly seen dumping rubble into a domestic waste container. The Guardia Civil reported the incident to the Local Police, who imposed the fine under local by-laws.

The regional Home Affairs department has described the inquiry as a routine, confidential step to establish whether any disciplinary offence may have been committed. It is not a sanction in itself, although it can lead to formal proceedings. Such reviews are common within police forces and are often closed without further action.

San Fulgencio Town Hall has confirmed receiving complaints from residents and business owners about the inspections, which reportedly focused on issues such as accessibility, capacity and safety. Municipal sources said up to 20 businesses were checked. The unit, which operates under the regional administration, has around 500 officers across the Valencian Community, including 75 in Alicante province.