In a coordinated effort to curb illicit trade, authorities launched a large-scale operation across the Canary Islands to target crimes against industrial property. The sweep culminated in the seizure of 25,714 counterfeit items linked to major brands, with an estimated market value exceeding six million euros. The breakthrough came as part of a comprehensive plan to dismantle networks that counterfeit goods across the region, protecting legitimate businesses and consumers alike. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
During the operation, 39 individuals were identified as suspected perpetrators of crimes against industrial property, all of whom are under ongoing investigation. The initiative reflects a determined use of law enforcement resources to pursue counterfeiters and disrupt the supply chains that feed illegal markets. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
The investigation began in May when surveillance teams intensified monitoring of commercial activity in Tenerife and extended to La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro. Civil Guard units observed a pattern of sales involving a substantial quantity of counterfeit goods, signaling an organized effort to distribute fake merchandise through various retail channels. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
To disrupt the operation, investigators deployed a multi-agency response designed to inspect facilities across multiple locations simultaneously. The goal was to prevent the continuation of illicit trafficking and to document the full scope of the counterfeiting network. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
As a result of the coordinated inspections, authorities identified 41 retail points, many of which functioned as bazaars, where a large volume of counterfeit items was sold. The seized goods covered a wide range of high-end categories, including apparel, bags, wallets, belts, footwear, sunglasses, perfumes, toys, and other children’s products. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
Forensic examinations conducted by brand experts confirmed that the items in question were counterfeit, reinforcing the decision to seize the products and pursue charges against those responsible. The investigations highlighted the risk posed by counterfeit children’s goods, which may fail to meet safety and quality standards essential for safeguarding young users. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
After extensive expert work, authorities estimate the total market value of the counterfeit inventory seized in the operation at 6,344,127 euros. This intervention stands as one of the most significant actions against industrial property violations in the Canary Islands, underscoring the region’s commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and consumer safety. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
The operation brought together around 120 officers from diverse units, including teams from Tenerife North and Tenerife South, the Airports Tax Department, the Tax and Border Analysis Unit, regional Tax and Border Patrols, and representatives from the Organic Division of the Judicial Police. The collaborative effort reflects a broad spectrum approach to dismantling counterfeit networks and enforcing property rights across jurisdictions. (Attribution: Civil Guard)
The ongoing investigation was led by the Santa Cruz de Tenerife State Prosecutor’s Office, with coordination from the various courts exercising jurisdiction at each inspection site. The legal framework and inter-agency cooperation ensured that the case progressed through the appropriate judicial channels, reinforcing the deterrent effect of the operation. (Attribution: Santa Cruz de Tenerife State Prosecutor’s Office)