Spanish Police Officer Rescues Moroccan Children from Dangerous Currents in Malaga Beach Drama

Javier Illera did not expect to risk his life. But, faced with the dangerous nature of the scene, he had no choice. Throwing himself into the water seemed to be the only alternative.

These children, narrowly saved by the police officer, are two Moroccan brothers who were about to be swept away into the unknown by the currents, had it not been for the policeman’s bravery. However, he was unable to save the father.

Moreover, his heroic attitude earned him, according to La Gaceta de Salamanca, the recognition of his superiors in Malaga and Salamanca.

At 41, Javier Illera has five years with the Prevention and Reaction Unit of the Salamanca Police Station as an agent in charge of custody and the restoration of public order.

"Because even if I wasn’t a cop, I would have done the same thing, because I’m convinced that solidarity can’t be lost. I’d like to think that if one of my relatives and I were in a similar situation, someone could help us. If we lose the principle of solidarity, I don’t know where this society would end up," said the Salamanca agent.

Javier Illera has had no news of these Moroccan children who were spending their vacation in Benalmádena with their parents, or of their mother who, that morning, had decided to stay at home while her husband and children went for a swim on the beach.

Now the summer is over, but people should be more aware and know that "the beach is not a pool," the agent explained, as a way of raising awareness.