The Canary Islands Police have stepped up inspections around Tenerife South Airport as part of an operation targeting illegal passenger transport services and improving safety for travellers.

The operation, carried out by the General Corps of the Canary Islands Police (CGPC), focused on vehicles operating around the airport to identify drivers offering taxi or public transport services without the required licences.

The inspections form part of the force's ongoing efforts to enforce transport regulations, protect passengers and ensure fair competition between licensed operators.

Checks on taxis, private vehicles and buses

During the operation, officers carried out selective roadside checks on vehicles entering and leaving the airport, paying particular attention to those suspected of transporting passengers illegally.

At the same time, inspections were also carried out on authorised public transport vehicles to ensure they were operating safely and in compliance with passenger transport regulations.

Police also conducted security checks designed to prevent prohibited items or illegal substances from being brought onto passenger vehicles, helping to maintain a safe travel environment.

Specialist police and canine units involved

The operation brought together the CGPC's Transport Group, Public Safety Unit and Canine Unit.

Police dogs Dira, Tirma, Xena and Kira assisted officers by carrying out specialist searches for prohibited substances, increasing the effectiveness of the inspections.

Tachograph inspections

Officers also inspected vehicle tachographs to ensure transport operators were complying with legal limits on driving hours, mandatory breaks and rest periods.

These checks are intended to improve road safety and reduce fatigue-related risks for professional drivers working in the passenger transport sector.

The Canary Islands Police said similar operations will continue at strategic transport hubs across the islands as part of ongoing efforts to improve the safety, legality and quality of public passenger transport services.