The National Police is implementing a targeted policing initiative in Santa Cruz de Tenerife designed to prevent the occurrence of thefts involving force from vehicles parked on public roads.
With the onset of the summer season, it has become essential to introduce specific measures in light of the notable, though not alarming, rise in certain criminal activities, such as thefts from vehicles in tourist hotspots, beaches, or viewpoints.
Three individuals apprehended for vehicle theft
As part of this operation, three individuals have recently been apprehended in Tenerife’s capital for their alleged involvement in crimes related to theft with force from a vehicle and unlawful use or theft of a motor vehicle.
The suspects reportedly targeted areas with significant tourist traffic, such as swimming locations and beaches within the municipalities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, to carry out the thefts for which they were detained.
Investigations suggest they used rented vehicles to pose as tourists, thereby reducing the likelihood of detection by law enforcement.
Following meticulous observation and monitoring to identify suitable vehicles for theft, they typically focused on those where the owners had inadvertently left desirable items in plain view.
Safety Tips
The National Police recommends adhering to these guidelines to mitigate the risk of such crimes:
- Always ensure that your vehicle’s doors and windows are securely locked, even if you are briefly stepping away. Never leave the keys in the ignition.
- Avoid leaving backpacks, bags, mobile phones, or other valuables in clear sight on the dashboard or front seats.
- Do not store keys for garages or homes inside your vehicle.
- Where possible, park your vehicle in well-lit areas, steering clear of secluded locations.
Members of the public who witness such incidents are reminded that they can report them to the National Police by calling the emergency numbers 091 or 112.
