The Civil Guard has carried out the arrest of eight people in Tenerife, accused of being part of a criminal organisation that has committed violent robberies and intimidation in commercial establishments. The detainees are attributed with more than 30 crimes, including robbery with force and vehicle theft.
Police operation and findings
The operation began following an increase in the number of assaults on service stations and restaurants in various municipalities on the island. The incidents caused alarm among business owners and merchants due to the aggressiveness of the assailants.
During the investigation, which lasted four months, four home searches were conducted, where simulated weapons, knuckle dusters, taser devices, and stolen valuable items, such as jewellery and tobacco, were located.
Criminal methodology and modus operandi
The group members used rented or stolen vehicles to commit their crimes. These were modified with stolen license plates and used in surveillance routes to avoid identification. The assaults were mainly carried out at night, with the criminals wearing hoods and armed, which increased the level of intimidation towards the victims.
The proceeds from the robberies, which include the looting of safes and the theft of large amounts of cash, are estimated to exceed 60,000 euros. Additionally, material damages to the establishments exceed 100,000 euros.
In anticipation of a new robbery, the Civil Guard implemented a police operation that culminated in the capture of the suspects, who were carrying knives, tasers, and other items to intimidate the victims.
Three of the detainees have been remanded in custody due to the violent nature of their crimes. For more information, you can contact the Press Office of the Civil Guard Command in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
You may also like
