The Guardia Civil has concluded Operation TEAMPRO, a two-year investigation into a sophisticated tobacco smuggling network operating through Tenerife South Airport.
A total of 175 people of various nationalities have been detained or investigated for smuggling significant quantities of contraband tobacco into England via multiple airports.
The operation began in December 2022, with an initial investigation of 11 people and the seizure of 20 suitcases containing over 1,200 cartons and 35 kilograms of loose tobacco.
Exploiting the Canary Islands' favourable tax regulations on tobacco products, many visitors to the region purchase tobacco to take back to their home countries.
However, investigators uncovered a well-organised criminal network, structured with clear hierarchies, that systematically smuggled tobacco and laundered the proceeds in England and Romania.
International Collaboration
In December 2023, a coordination meeting was held between the Fiscal and Border Investigation and Analysis Unit (UDAIFF) of the Guardia Civil in the south of Tenerife, EUROPOL, and the British authorities.
Shared intelligence facilitated a deeper understanding of the network's operations, leading to arrests and further discoveries.
The final phase of the operation included the following actions:
The investigation revealed that profits from the continuous sale of contraband tobacco were laundered in the UK and Romania, where they were reinvested in businesses and real estate.
Criminal Network Dismantled
Authorities report that the dismantling of this group has led to a significant decline in smuggling activities and associated seizures. The detainees, along with the compiled evidence, have been referred to the Court of Instruction in Granadilla de Abona for further legal proceedings.
The success of Operation TEAMPRO highlights the effectiveness of international cooperation in tackling cross-border crimes and ensuring the security of regional airports.
