Business leaders call for more police and CCTV amid crime surge in South Tenerife
Business Associations are demanding urgent action following what they describe as a worrying rise in crime across holiday resorts in the south of Tenerife.
CEST (The Círculo de Empresarios y Profesionales del Sur de Tenerife) has raised the alarm over an increase in break-ins, robberies, and shoplifting in areas such as Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Las Galletas.
According to the group, the situation is not only impacting businesses but also damaging the image and sense of safety in towns long regarded as thriving and welcoming destinations.
“Immediate Solutions Needed”
Javier Cabrera, president of CEST, was blunt in his assessment: “Security in the South needs immediate solutions,” he said, warning that the current situation must not become normalised.
“We cannot accept a scenario that is generating insecurity, economic losses and a clear deterioration in the image of towns that have always been a reference point for activity and coexistence.”
Cabrera stressed that when traders and residents speak out “with one voice”, public administrations must respond without delay.
Call for CCTV and More Police Presence
The business association argues that there is a permanent lack of police presence in the region and is calling for both technological and operational measures to tackle the issue.
Among its key proposals is the installation of modern CCTV surveillance cameras at strategic points across affected areas. The aim, it says, is to provide both a deterrent effect and practical support for law enforcement.
Javier Cabrera, president of CEST (Image: EDS)
“Cameras not only help prevent crime, they also create a feeling of protection for shopkeepers, residents and visitors,” Cabrera explained. “It is a measure that has already proven effective elsewhere.”
In addition to surveillance systems, CEST is urging stronger coordination between local authorities and national security forces. The group wants improved allocation of officers in the most problematic areas and faster response times when incidents occur.
“It is not just about reacting, but about anticipating problems,” Cabrera added. “Security is a fundamental pillar of the economic and social development of south Tenerife.”
Protecting Confidence in Key Tourist Areas
South Tenerife remains one of the island’s most important economic engines, heavily reliant on tourism and local commerce. Business leaders warn that rising insecurity could undermine confidence among both residents and visitors if swift action is not taken.
CEST has pledged to continue working closely with the socio-economic sector and public institutions to push for joint solutions aimed at restoring confidence, stability and peaceful coexistence in the region’s towns.
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