Canary Islands News

Latest news directly from the island

Stay informed about the most important events in the Canary Islands!


Our team delivers exclusive and up-to-the-minute news, professionally prepared by Alex Peekes, a long-time journalist and foreign correspondent for various international media outlets.

With direct access to official police reports, authorities, and insider sources, you'll be the first to hear important information – unvarnished, objective, and relevant.

29/07/2025

Las Palmas: Diver arrested while attempting to recover 101 kilos of cocaine from ship's hull


The Guardia Civil in the port of La Luz, in cooperation with the port police, has arrested a 34-year-old man suspected of attempting to recover 101 kilograms of cocaine from the hull of a cargo ship.

The operation took place on July 23. Officials spotted the diver near a ship from Brazil, but he was unable to explain his presence. Shortly thereafter, several waterproof bundles that had been removed from the ship's hull surfaced in the water.

The bags contained cocaine. The Guardia Civil confiscated the drugs and arrested the man for drug trafficking.

The arrested man was transferred, along with the investigation documents, to the investigating court in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which ordered his pre-trial detention.

24/07/2025

Tenerife: Two arrests after the theft of over 3,000 official sports items from CD Tenerife


- One of the accused is an employee of the club.

- Value of seized material: over 120,000 euros.


The Guardia Civil has arrested two people and placed a third under investigation as part of "Operation TAMARCO." They are accused of embezzling and illegally reselling more than 3,000 official sports items from the CD Tenerife football club.

According to investigators, the scheme involved diverting material officially intended for the club and circulating it through illegal distribution channels.

The investigation began after a complaint from the club's management, which had discovered irregularities in the arrival of official equipment. The Criminal Investigation Unit of the Guardia Civil in Santa Cruz de Tenerife subsequently took over the investigation.

During a search of a storage facility in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 3,480 items of club clothing were seized, including official jerseys and other equipment. The value of the goods is estimated at more than €120,000. No reliable information is yet available regarding the timeframe of the incidents and the total amount of damage.

The investigation was coordinated by the relevant judicial authority and the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Public Prosecutor's Office. The two detainees were handed over to the courts along with the case files.

22/07/2025

Fuerteventura: Guardia Civil solves eight burglaries in shops


- Two men aged 41 and 46 arrested.

- Stolen goods worth 22,502.15 euros, including over 10,000 euros worth of tobacco.


On July 4, the Fuerteventura Civil Guard arrested two men suspected of having committed a total of eight burglaries in shops in La Oliva between December 2024 and June 2025.

The perpetrators stole cash from cash registers, electronic devices, alcohol, and large quantities of tobacco worth more than €10,000. The total damage amounts to €22,502.15.

Following complaints from several shop and restaurant owners, the Guardia Civil began its investigation. The break-ins occurred at night. The perpetrators used rental cars, covering their license plates, and disguised themselves with wigs and disguises. They used tools such as sledgehammers and bolt cutters to break into the businesses.

Thanks to detailed video recordings and covert surveillance, investigators were able to identify the two suspects. It was striking that they wore identical clothing during several of the crimes. This, along with other circumstantial evidence, ultimately led to their arrest.

The two men were brought before the district court in Puerto del Rosario.


18/07/2025

Tenerife: Guardia Civil breaks up violent gang after months of investigation


Specializing in armed robberies of cash transports and residential buildings.

Loot of over 290,000 euros – perpetrators used partly fake Guardia Civil uniforms.


As part of the “Operation SCRUM-MONÉ,” the Guardia Civil completely dismantled a criminal group that specialized in serious robberies using violence and intimidation.

The gang operated with extreme brutality, not shying away from directly attacking victims, and in some cases, wearing clothing that bore a striking resemblance to official Guardia Civil uniforms. Their main targets were armored cars and remote residential buildings. In total, the perpetrators stole more than €290,000.

The investigation led officers to several robberies:

  • September 2024 (El Sauzal): Attack on a residential building in which the perpetrators even pointed a gun at the officers. Two of them were arrested.
  • November 2024: Robbery of an armored car containing more than 50,000 euros. One perpetrator was arrested, and all the money was seized.
  • February 2025: Arrest of another gang member, against whom five arrest warrants had already been issued.
  • June 2025: Last remaining fugitive arrested, wanted for attempted manslaughter, who had gone into hiding under false identities and using encrypted communications.

A total of eight members were identified, all residing in Tenerife. In addition to cash, the Guardia Civil seized five vehicles, numerous electronic devices, and vests bearing Guardia Civil emblems.

Six of the gang members were taken into custody. Some of them had already been arrested in a similar operation in 2022 and later convicted.

The investigation was carried out by several units of the Guardia Civil in Tenerife, including the property crimes units and the police units in Puerto de la Cruz and Playa de las Américas.






18/07/2025

Gran Canaria: Passenger arrested with 4 kilos of heroin in his luggage


On July 12, 2025, Guardia Civil officers at Gran Canaria Airport arrested a 53-year-old passenger carrying four kilograms of heroin in his luggage.

The man had arrived on a flight from a European country. During the preventive checks, he appeared noticeably nervous, so the officers checked his luggage. They discovered several bags containing a suspicious powder substance.

A laboratory analysis confirmed that it was heroin—a drug with particularly destructive effects. The total amount seized was four kilograms.

The passenger was arrested at the airport and brought before the investigating court in Telde, which ordered his pre-trial detention. According to the Guardia Civil and the tax authority, this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of airport controls and the joint commitment to citizen safety.

14/07/2025

Lanzarote: Guardia Civil arrests passenger with 4 kilos of marijuana in checked baggage


The drugs were discovered during a routine check at the airport.


On June 29, 2025, Guardia Civil officers at Lanzarote Airport, in cooperation with a customs officer (UDAIFF), arrested a 27-year-old British citizen on suspicion of committing a crime against public health.

During a random check in the baggage handling area of Terminal T2 (domestic flights), officials inspected suitcases for a flight to Tenerife South (Reina Sofía Airport). One piece of luggage stood out due to its unusually low weight for its size and its strong odor.

During the subsequent inspection in the presence of the traveler, officers found four vacuum-sealed bags, each containing approximately one kilogram of marijuana buds. A total of four kilograms of marijuana with an estimated market value of €7,261 were seized.

The detainee was brought before the Investigative Court No. 1 in Arrecife, which will decide on further action.






13/07/2025

Cáceres: Guardia Civil dismantles cyber fraud network – damages of almost 1.6 million euros


- 15 people arrested for fraud, identity theft, money laundering and membership in a criminal organization.

- More than 50 cases solved – Methods: “man-in-the-middle” attacks and romance scams.


The Guardia Civil has dismantled a criminal network specializing in large-scale internet fraud. A total of 15 people were arrested who stole almost 1.6 million euros through various fraud methods.

The investigation began in 2023 following a complaint in Cáceres: A woman had allegedly had a romantic relationship with an alleged US officer for two years and transferred over 100,000 euros to him. This led investigators to an internationally operating gang.

The group used two main methods: "man-in-the-middle" attacks on businesses, in which manipulated invoice payments were redirected to the perpetrators' accounts. Romance scams, in which victims were emotionally manipulated and tricked into making large transfers. In some cases, victims took out loans that they are still repaying today.

Smishing and vishing attacks were also used. Many victims were victimized a second time because their identities were used for further fraud. A total of 56 crimes were solved across Spain – including Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Las Palmas, Tenerife, and other provinces.

During 15 house searches in several regions, extensive evidence was seized: foreign bank documents, 52 mobile phones, 20 storage devices, 18 laptops, 13 tablets, and several crypto wallets.

Eleven of the 15 arrested were remanded in custody. For the others, the court in Cáceres ordered the confiscation of their passports and registration requirements.

The Guardia Civil emphasized that uncovering the gang prevented further planned fraud and secured funds.


12/07/2025

Gran Canaria: Two drivers reported for dangerous driving maneuvers


They performed what is known as “drifting” – risky driving with deliberate drifts in curves.


The Guardia Civil is investigating two drivers on Gran Canaria for dangerous driving. Both drivers performed risky drifts on public roads and were filmed doing so.

The footage, which was shared on social media, shows the vehicles engaging in what is known as "drifting": repeated drifts around curves, causing the cars to lose control of the road at high speed. This also resulted in collisions with traffic signs and guardrails.

After analyzing the video footage, officers were able to definitively identify the vehicles, as well as the location and time of the incidents. Among the suspects is a young man known on social media for his motorsport activities, who edited and published the videos himself.


10/07/2025

Three people arrested in Las Palmas – 72 kilos of cocaine discovered in the hull of a ship


50 kilos in a suitcase, another 22 kilos in a hidden pocket in the hull of the ship.

Two of those arrested worked at the port of Las Palmas.


The Guardia Civil, under the supervision of the customs authorities, arrested three people – two men and one woman – for drug trafficking. A total of 72 kilograms of cocaine was seized.

During an inspection of a supply ship supplying merchant vessels in the port of Las Palmas, officials first discovered a large suitcase containing two bundles of cocaine. A further search of the bodega also revealed diving equipment. Three people were on board: the captain, a seaman, and an unregistered passenger.

In addition, the GEAS special unit examined the freighter that the supply vessel had served. They discovered a black package containing further cocaine shipments in the seawater intake grates.

The total amount of drugs seized amounts to 72 kilograms.

09/07/2025

Guardia Civil investigates residents of Haría for alleged animal cruelty after repeated attacks by his dogs


The accused lives in Charco del Palo, where both pets and residents have been affected by attacks.


The SEPRONA nature conservation service of the Guardia Civil on Lanzarote is investigating a resident of Charco del Palo (municipality of Haría) for alleged animal cruelty.

The background to this is numerous documented attacks by at least three of the suspect's dogs. Both pets and free-roaming cat colonies were affected. According to current information, at least four cats were killed – three of them microchipped domestic cats, another from a cat colony. In addition, two neighbors' dogs were injured, one of which died from the injuries sustained.

The case came to light after a neighbor reported the death of three of his cats, apparently killed by two of the accused's dogs. According to other neighbors, the man lets his animals roam freely without supervision. They regularly invade properties, gardens, and even private terraces of the residential complexes. Residents suspect that the man owns up to eight dogs. According to the complaint, there was also an attack on a homeowner, who was only able to avoid injury by fleeing into his house in time.

In the following days, further reports were received describing similar incidents from recent months. Photos and other evidence demonstrate continued dangerous behavior by the animals, causing concern among local residents and posing a threat to safety in the area.

SEPRONA has taken over the investigation, interviewed witnesses and victims, and analyzed the photographic evidence. The results were submitted to the investigating court in Arrecife and the local environmental prosecutor's office.

Authorities are now investigating responsibilities and taking measures to ensure the safety of residents and animals in Charco del Palo.


08/07/2025

Guardia Civil arrests drug dealer in Vecindario


- Numerous doses of cocaine, cash and two mobile phones were seized.

- The driver's noticeable nervous behavior led to the inspection.


The Guardia Civil in Vecindario arrested a man in June for suspected drug trafficking. Thanks to the officers' attention, a new drug distribution site in the municipality of Santa Lucía de Tirajana was dismantled.

The arrest occurred on June 15 at approximately 9:30 p.m. during a routine check. Officers from the Citizen Security Unit stopped a vehicle and noticed that the driver was acting excessively nervous and was barely able to follow clear instructions.

The officers then conducted a cursory search. In a bag, they found numerous single doses of a white powder with a strong chemical odor. Analysis confirmed their suspicion: it was cocaine. Investigators also discovered several denominations of banknotes and two cell phones – typical street-trafficking paraphernalia.

The man was arrested for an alleged crime against public health. The Guardia Civil emphasized that combating such drug sales points is a priority to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.


07/07/2025

Arrest after company break-in in Arinaga: Cash and securities with a total value of over 74,000 euros stolen


The company's surveillance systems were crucial in solving the crime.

On June 17, the Guardia Civil arrested a man suspected of having committed a burglary and theft at a company in the Arinaga industrial estate on April 19, 2025.

At around 6:30 a.m., the perpetrator climbed over the more than two-meter-high wall of the PREFABRICADOS company, entered the building, and went to the offices on the first floor. There, he stole €1,402.46 in cash and 25 registered securities (bills of exchange), with a total value of €73,275.05.

Investigators were able to clearly identify the suspect thanks to the company's modern video surveillance system. The system recorded the entire crime in detail, allowing not only the perpetrator to be identified but also a precise reconstruction of his actions.

The Guardia Civil emphasized the importance of close cooperation with business associations, stating that the exchange of information through monitoring systems and company reports is crucial for solving crimes of this kind more quickly, implementing preventive measures, and protecting the economic fabric.

The arrested person and the investigation files were handed over to the emergency court in Telde.

04/07/2025

Guardia Civil arrests two young men after armed robbery in Gran Canaria


The perpetrators entered the store masked and armed.


In June, the Guardia Civil arrested two men suspected of having committed an armed robbery in a gaming parlor in Santa María de Guía (Gran Canaria).

On June 2nd, at approximately 11:50 p.m., the two perpetrators entered the salon. Hooded masks and armed with firearms and blunt instruments, they terrified the employees and patrons present. Within minutes, they stole an as yet undetermined amount of cash from the cash register and fled.

The investigation was conducted by officers from the Guardia Civil headquarters in Santa María de Guía in close cooperation with the local police. The focus was on the careful analysis of video recordings from the bar and the surrounding area.

Thanks to the analysis of these images, investigators were able to identify similarities: the silhouettes of two people whose appearance and clothing matched those of the perpetrators were recognized on escape routes that corresponded to the course of events.

This evidence, along with other clues gathered during the investigation, ultimately led to the arrest of the suspects.

The two detainees were transferred to the Investigative Court of Santa María de Guía (Gran Canaria) along with the investigation report.




03/07/2025

Tenerife: Guardia Civil breaks up pickpocketing network – 80 people arrested


- The perpetrators acted in well-organized groups with clearly defined roles.

- Numerous stolen items were recovered.


The Guardia Civil has successfully completed a large-scale operation against a network of pickpockets in Tenerife. A total of 80 people were arrested.

Operation Danubio began in November 2024, at the start of the tourist season, as experience shows that the number of thefts in tourist areas increases sharply during this time. Officers from various units conducted covert surveillance, crime pattern analysis, and follow-up investigations for months.

The criminal group was highly organized: some members stole the valuables, others distracted the victims, while others were responsible for transporting and safely storing the loot. Many of those arrested had numerous previous convictions for minor thefts and had so far avoided prison sentences because the offenses were less serious.

During the investigation, the Guardia Civil seized mobile phones, wallets containing documents, luxury watches, and cash. They also discovered fake IDs, some of which were used to conceal identities.

According to the authorities, the dismantling of this network represents a significant success, as the group caused great insecurity among both tourists and locals in busy areas.

The investigation files were handed over to the relevant courts on the island.

Guardia Civil advice on protection against theft:

  • Always close vehicles completely (doors and windows).
  • Do not leave any valuables visible in the car.
  • Immediately report suspicious persons near parked cars.
  • If something is stolen, do not touch anything and report it immediately.



03/07/2025

Joint operation by Guardia Civil and tax authorities


Passenger arrested at Gran Canaria Airport – over 6 kilos of heroin discovered in luggage


  • The arrested passenger was carrying the drugs hidden inside his luggage.


The Guardia Civil at Gran Canaria Airport, in cooperation with the Customs and Excise Administration, arrested a 35-year-old man who had arrived from Amsterdam and, according to his own statement, intended to vacation in Gran Canaria. More than six kilograms of heroin were discovered in his luggage—an unprecedented find in this area.

The operation took place following the arrival of a European flight as part of a routine check. Officials noticed the suspicious behavior of the passenger, who suddenly fled during an attempted check and ran out of the arrivals hall. However, he was intercepted outside the terminal.

During a subsequent thorough search of his luggage, officers found several packages containing a powdered substance, a large amount of cash, and other items related to the alleged crime. Laboratory analysis confirmed their suspicions: more than six kilograms of heroin.

According to authorities, this discovery underlines the seriousness of the crime and the potential threat to public health.

The Guardia Civil stressed that the successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of preventive measures at airports aimed at detecting and preventing both tax and criminal violations.

The arrested man was brought before the pre-trial court in Telde along with the seized drugs. The court ordered his detention.

01/07/2025

SEPRONA investigates a person for animal abuse in Gran Canaria


The animals, which were extremely emaciated, were found in an outbuilding of a residential building. They were in poor health, infested with fleas and ticks, and had injuries.

In addition, a so-called "falsete" was discovered – a handmade trap rigged with a wild canary as a decoy. The use of this trap is also prohibited.


SEPRONA is investigating one person for one offense against animals and another against flora and fauna. Numerous dogs were found on a property in deplorable conditions: permanently chained, surrounded by garbage, without suitable shelter, and in obvious states of neglect or illness.

On June 3, a SEPRONA patrol was called to a farm in Los Rosales, Firgas (Las Palmas), after receiving complaints about the condition of several dogs. At the scene, the officers encountered two men, one of whom was the owner of the animals.

One dog in particular stood out, exhibiting severe emaciation (cachexia). It was tied to an asbestos-cement container with a short chain, 80 cm to 1 m long, which prevented it from keeping its distance from its resting place. As a result, the animal was forced to live permanently in its own excrement. The dog also had multiple injuries all over its body, particularly its severely damaged ears with deep wounds.

In the immediate vicinity, officers found a small cage, only about 20 cm high, 40 cm wide, and 60 cm long. Inside were two approximately two-month-old mixed-breed puppies, who could barely move in the cramped space. There was little water in the kennel, and no food at all. After opening the cage, the puppies immediately ran to a water container.

A veterinarian consulted confirmed that the dogs' lives would have been in acute danger if the situation had continued. The animals were then handed over to the Cabildo de Gran Canaria's Wildlife Rescue Center for identification, medical examination, and documentation of their condition.

According to the Guardia Civil, the circumstances identified constituted a form of absolute recklessness and complete neglect, which could have resulted in the death of all the animals. The dogs now remain under the supervision of the judicial authorities.

In addition, a "falsete" (a hand-made trap for catching live birds) was discovered, using a canary (Serinus canaria) as a decoy. Another canary was also found in a cage, which, according to the owner, was also illegally caught. This bird species is protected under both national and Canary Islands law. Therefore, the birds and the trapping devices were confiscated and also handed over to the Wildlife Rescue Center for further examination.


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