Guardia Civil seize over 44,000 fake toys from secret workshop in south Tenerife
The Guardia Civil has seized more than 44,000 counterfeit toys in Arona, in the south of Tenerife, just days before the Christmas shopping season reaches its peak. The items were discovered during an inspection of a bazaar-style shop, where officers found a secret workshop in the basement used to manufacture imitation products.
The operation was carried out by officers from the Fiscal and Borders Unit at Tenerife South Airport together with the Playa de las Américas Fiscal Patrol. Their aim was to protect consumers from unsafe products that fail to meet legal standards and may present serious risks to children.
A total of 44,212 counterfeit toys were confiscated, with an estimated market value of over three million euros, according to a specialist court-appointed expert in industrial property.
Fake branding, missing safety labels and an illegal workshop
The investigation began after officers detected toys for sale with irregular labelling, missing mandatory safety certifications, and clear signs of trademark forgery. When they inspected the premises, they discovered the illegal activity extended far beyond selling counterfeit products. Hidden in the basement was a fully equipped workshop where staff assembled imitation toys to make them appear genuine.
Officers also seized moulds, adhesives, packaging materials and other components used to produce fake children’s products, items that pose a particular safety risk due to their lack of proper testing and certification.
Investigation ongoing
The Guardia Civil is now trying to establish how far the counterfeit toys had been distributed and to identify the source of the materials used to make them.
Safety reminder for families
With Christmas approaching, the Guardia Civil is urging families to check that toys carry:
- The CE marking on the product itself.
- The manufacturer's or importer’s name and brand.
- A visible lot, model or serial number.
- Clear age recommendations, weight limits and whether adult supervision is required.
The force warns that fake toys may not only breach trademark laws but can also endanger children due to poor-quality materials and the absence of essential safety controls.
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