It’s probably a job offer you wouldn’t expect to see at a school leavers job fair, but nonetheless, it is a valued job that is making Rincon de la Victoria a happier and healthier place to live . . . and after all, someone’s got to do it!

In Rincon de la Victoria, a unique initiative is turning the tide on one of urban life’s messiest problems: dog waste littering public spaces. Local authorities have implemented a cutting-edge DNA testing programme for canine excrement, aimed at identifying negligent pet owners and promoting cleaner streets. According to the council, the effort has already led to a “major reduction” in dog poo across the town’s streets, parks, promenades, and residential areas.

The programme, managed by the town hall’s Health and Consumer Affairs department, involves publicly contracted officials who patrol streets to collect samples of unattended dog poo, document them, photograph them, and take away a sample for DNA testing. These officials follow a strict, legally recognised protocol, including precise, verifiable geolocating the site, taking detailed photographs of the offending item, and its surroundings, biologically sealing the sample, and maintaining a strict secure chain of custody to ensure fully legal integrity. Once collected, the samples are sent for analysis to a private company called ADN Canino, where laboratory staff—likely veterinary molecular biologists or specialised technicians – extract and compare DNA against the town’s municipal genetic census of registered dogs.

Detective work “reliable and fully guaranteed from a technical and legal standpoint”

This innovative system, described by the local authorities as “reliable and fully guaranteed from a technical and legal standpoint,” not only identifies the offending animal but also holds owners accountable through fines ranging from €75 to €500. However, the council stresses that the campaign is more educational than punitive. “Our goal is to raise awareness among pet owners about their responsibilities, protect shared spaces, and encourage respectful coexistence,” Ramos said. She highlighted the program’s role in encouraging responsible pet ownership, particularly for dogs, which has contributed to noticeably cleaner high-foot traffic zones.

The outsourced analysis firm boasts certifications under UNE-EN ISO 9001:2015 for quality management and UNE-EN ISO 14001:2015 for environmental management, giving legal credibility the programme’s commitment to sustainability and rigour. 

Citizen involvement is key to the initiative’s success, for the council, transforming what could be a thankless task into a community-driven push for a healthier, more liveable town.

Since its launch, the DNA identification effort has proven effective, with visible improvements in urban hygiene. For Rincon de la Victoria, this quirky but essential job is proving that even the dirtiest duties can lead to a brighter, cleaner future.

Donald Trump has announced that the United States will impose new tariffs on imports from several European Union countries and the United Kingdom, explicitly linking the measures to his long-standing interest in acquiring Greenland. The announcement was made in a message on his social media platform, Truth Social, and has prompted concern among European governments.

According to Trump, all goods exported from the affected countries to the United States will face an initial tariff of 10 per cent from February 1, rising to 25 per cent from June 1. He stated that the tariffs will remain in place “until a deal is reached for the complete purchase of Greenland”, while emphasising that he is “immediately open to negotiating” with Denmark or other concerned parties.

Countries affected and tariff timetable

Dates and rates formally set out

Trump specifically named Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland as the countries targeted by the proposed tariffs. He claimed that these nations had engaged in activities in Greenland that posed “a level of risk unsustainable for global security” and justified the measures on strategic grounds.

The implementation dates are clearly defined: a 10 per cent duty starting on 1 February 2026, increasing to 25 per cent from 1 June 2026. Unlike typical trade measures, the tariffs include no fixed end date, remaining in effect until the stated political condition, a Greenland purchase agreement, is met. European officials have noted that this indefinite horizon adds uncertainty to trade planning.

Greenland and sovereignty concerns

Denmark and Greenland reject US pressure

Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, with extensive control over domestic affairs. Danish authorities have repeatedly stated that Greenland is not for sale, a position reinforced by the Greenlandic government. Both governments emphasise that decisions regarding the territory’s future rest with Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark.

Following Trump’s announcement, thousands of people demonstrated in Denmark under the slogan “Greenland is not for sale”, protesting what they described as US expansionism. The Danish government has confirmed that Greenland’s status is a matter of sovereignty and international law and cannot be resolved through economic coercion.

Trump’s justification and security claims

Strategic arguments raise alarm in Europe

In his Truth Social message, Trump argued that Greenland is strategically vital to global and US security, claiming that China and Russia have growing interests in the Arctic region. He criticised Denmark for what he described as inadequate defensive capabilities on the island and said that only the United States could ensure Greenland’s protection.

Trump additionally claimed that several European countries had travelled to Greenland for “unknown purposes”, describing these actions as a potential threat to world security. He linked his proposal to advanced missile defence systems and broader security infrastructure, saying that Greenland’s inclusion in US planning was essential for maximum operational efficiency.

Economic implications for Europe and the US

Trade uncertainty and potential cost increases

If implemented, the tariffs would increase costs for European exporters and for US importers and consumers. Sectors reliant on transatlantic supply chains, including manufacturing and agri-food, could face disruptions. Even the prospect of these duties has already created uncertainty for businesses seeking to plan ahead.

Industry groups across Europe and the UK warned that the indefinite nature of the tariffs complicates investment decisions. Trade specialists note that tariffs usually affect commercial behaviour rather than territorial issues and that economic pressure alone is unlikely to produce political concessions regarding Greenland.

What is confirmed

• Tariffs of 10 per cent begin on February 1
• Tariffs rise to 25 per cent from June 1
• Targeted countries include Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, Netherlands and Finland
• Tariffs remain in place until a Greenland purchase agreement is reached
• Trump has indicated he is open to immediate negotiation
• Denmark and Greenland have rejected any sale

What this means and possible outcomes

Trade pressure unlikely to change sovereignty stance

Official statements from Denmark and Greenland indicate that the tariff threat is unlikely to result in negotiations over sovereignty. Both governments have maintained that Greenland is not for sale and that any decision about its future rests with Greenland’s population.

While Trump has stated he is open to negotiations, European officials have emphasised that Greenland’s status is not linked to trade policy. Based on current positions, the situation is expected to generate diplomatic tension and economic uncertainty rather than lead to any agreement. Businesses and governments will likely focus on mitigating disruption while maintaining established political positions.

Velez-Malaga’s culinary map has just gained a bright new star with the recent opening of Toyo Sushi, a modern Japanese restaurant that brings a welcoming and contemporary atmosphere to the town centre.

The venue combines sleek, minimalist design with warm, inviting lighting and comfortable seating, creating an environment that feels both relaxed and sophisticated, ideal for a casual lunch, a family meal or an evening out with friends.

Versatility for all occasions

Toyo Sushi offers a versatile dining experience, operating as a hybrid Japanese restaurant with two main formats: an all-you-can-eat buffet available at both lunch and dinner and a comprehensive à la carte menu centred on authentic Asian cuisine. The buffet features an extensive selection of classic sushi pieces, fresh salmon and fish preparations, assorted nigiri and maki rolls, flavourful rice dishes, grilled meats, hot specialities and a variety of creative Japanese and Chinese-inspired options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are well represented, ensuring something for every palate. As well, the restaurant provides a daily lunch menu for those seeking a quicker, more economical weekday option.

Prices have been set with accessibility in mind, following the successful model of the chain’s existing location in Fuengirola. The buffet is priced competitively, typically around €19.90 for weekday lunches, with evening and weekend sessions in a similar affordable range. À la carte dishes and the daily menu also deliver excellent value, making the restaurant suitable for both regular visits and special occasions. Home delivery is available through popular platforms such as Uber Eats, allowing customers to enjoy the same fresh dishes in the comfort of their own homes.

Quality, variety and value for money

What makes Toyo Sushi particularly recommendable is its strong combination of quality, variety and value for money. The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients — especially the fish — together with careful preparation and generous portion sizes, ensures a satisfying experience. The buffet format allows diners to explore a wide range of dishes without restraint, while the reasonable pricing makes it an attractive option for frequent visits rather than just an occasional treat. Early feedback suggests the restaurant is already building a reputation for consistent quality and friendly service.

Toyo Sushi is located on Calle Herreros 7, Velez-Malaga. To reserve a table, place a takeaway order or arrange delivery, customers can contact the restaurant directly by phone (details available through local directories or the official website) or use delivery apps. With its doors freshly opened in January 2026, now is the perfect moment to discover this exciting new Japanese addition to Velez-Malaga’s dining selection.