Italian mafia suspect arrested in south Tenerife
A suspected member of an Italian mafia network has been arrested in southern Tenerife and could face up to 18 years in prison. The man was wanted by Italian authorities over alleged involvement in organised crime and money laundering.
Officers from the National Police detained the suspect following a European arrest warrant issued on 10th March. Investigators tracked him down to a property in Los Cristianos, where he was arrested on 30th March.
The man is believed to be linked to the Zagaria clan, part of a powerful criminal network based in Naples. Authorities say he played a main role in the organisation until 2016.
Specialist police units carried out a search of the property, supported by armed officers and aerial resources due to the risks involved. The operation formed part of a wider international investigation targeting the group’s activities.
At the same time, more than 150 officers were deployed in Italy, resulting in 22 arrests, with 19 suspects remanded in custody. Weapons, including pistols and a submachine gun, were also seized, highlighting the group’s level of organisation and danger.
The network is part of a wider criminal structure with links across Europe, including Spain. Authorities say these connections have helped expand operations beyond Italy, particularly in areas such as drug trafficking.
In total, 23 people have been arrested in Spain and Italy as part of the operation. Officials described the Tenerife arrest as one of the most important due to the suspect’s alleged role within the organisation.
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