The National Police together with Customs Inspection and Tax Administration authorities conducted a joint operation that led to the arrest of three suspects—two men and a woman—on charges of smuggling and crimes against flora and fauna. The arrests followed a detailed investigation into the illegal trafficking of protected species and their byproducts, including the sale and distribution tied to ritual practices. The operation highlights the ongoing effort to curb illegal wildlife trade and the trafficking networks operating within the Canary Islands region. [Citation: National Police Tenerife, 2021–2024]
Investigators alleged that the suspects were linked to the illegal entry and illicit distribution of protected species into Spain, with the remains themselves later sold for use in Santeria rituals. The case underscores the gravity of trafficking in endangered organisms and the broader impact on biodiversity and ecological balance. [Citation: National Police Tenerife, 2021–2024]
The inquiry began in 2021 when National Police officers received information indicating that animals and remains of protected species were being offered at two Tenerife facilities for ritual purposes. One site was located in Arona and the other in La Laguna. The National Police documented this activity in an official report, initiating a formal investigation into possible illegal wildlife handling and sales. [Citation: National Police Tenerife, 2021–2024]
The Customs Surveillance Operations Unit of the Tenerife Tax Office conducted a meticulous review of postal packages to trace the paths by which these animals entered the island and were moved through the supply chain. The analysis aimed to identify vulnerabilities in the handling and screening processes that allowed such goods to pass through customs controls. [Citation: Customs Surveillance Operations Unit, Tenerife Tax Office]
Findings indicated that a significant portion of the animals were concealed within the luggage of travelers, exploiting gaps in passenger screening procedures. This modus operandi suggested deliberate attempts to evade established package and cargo controls at points of entry. [Citation: Customs Surveillance Operations Unit, Tenerife Tax Office]
Evidence recovered through inspections revealed a diverse and disturbing inventory. Bats, birds originating from Cuba, heads of animals such as dogs and wolves, as well as monkeys, cobras, and crocodiles were among the items documented. Ivory, tiger teeth, gorilla teeth, and African frogs were also identified, illustrating a broad spectrum of protected items and wildlife parts involved in the illicit trade. [Citation: National Police Tenerife]
Further examinations at the crime scenes uncovered remains of live domestic animals used in ritual practices alongside a range of protected species. The inventory included hippopotamuses, lions, hyenas, crocodiles, chameleons, and seahorses, all subjects to protections under international conventions. The findings aligned with expectations that these materials were part of an organized trafficking operation and linked to specific individuals. [Citation: National Police Tenerife]
Technical analysis and expert review confirmed that many of the records and specimens were listed in the CITES catalog, affirming the involvement of the identified individuals in illicit wildlife commerce. This recognition by investigators reinforced the presumed authorship and supported the criminal case against those implicated. [Citation: CITES and investigative team]
In a coordinated action attended by agents from the General Information Commission and Customs Surveillance officials, three people were arrested as alleged perpetrators of smuggling and wildlife and vegetation crimes in Tenerife. The arrests followed a series of investigative steps designed to dismantle the trafficking network and protect vulnerable species from unlawful exploitation. [Citation: National Police Tenerife]