Agents of the National Police have arrested 16 fugitives wanted by international authorities in Tenerife this year, and nine extraditions have been carried out to fulfil international requests received through the Central Courts of Instruction of the National Court in Madrid.
The Police state that locating and arresting these international fugitives is “complex” and requires a “large amount of resources.” As an example, they explain the arrest of the latest fugitive sought by German authorities.
She was subject to a European Arrest and Extradition Order for the alleged commission of blackmail and extortion offences, punishable by sentences of up to 15 years in prison. In this case, the fugitive took strict self-protection measures to avoid being identified, even maintaining the appearance of residing outside the country. However, the agents managed to locate her in the south of the island, where she was arrested.
The Police details that among the latest arrests are two fugitives wanted by Italy and Venezuela for alleged drug trafficking offences. The first individual had a European Arrest and Extradition Order for allegedly engaging in cocaine trafficking in Italy, for which the competent judicial authority has already ordered imprisonment.
Regarding the second case, it involves a fugitive who was allegedly distributing cocaine on the Colombia-Venezuela route and was considered dangerous. An appropriate expulsion process has already been initiated for her due to her irregular status in the country.
This work, the Police emphasise, highlights the significant efforts made by the agents, whose “efficacy and professionalism have been key” in the arrest of numerous criminals wanted internationally. They add that their “coordinated, meticulous, and highly” specialised work continues to be a “key” piece in the fight against crime.
The Police also emphasise that citizen collaboration can be fundamental for locating these fugitives, as they can potentially be seen throughout the country.
