Two arrested over €45,000 gaming-machine scam in Fuerteventura

Two men have been arrested over an alleged €45,000 scam involving counterfeit gaming-machine prize tickets at an amusement arcade in Morro Jable, southern Fuerteventura.

Guardia Civil investigators believe the suspects used forged tickets to claim fraudulent payouts from the establishment’s machines.

During the operation, officers seized €2,809 in cash from one of the suspects and recovered numerous tickets believed to have been fake.

Investigation began after manager’s complaint

The investigation, named Operation PIAO, began in September 2026 after the arcade’s manager reported suspected fraud stretching from June 2025 to September 2026.

Officers from Guardia Civil’s Morro Jable investigation unit examined the establishment’s security-camera footage, identifying possible irregularities involving some customers.

Investigators say the alleged method involved duplicating tickets used by the machines’ “Ticket-In, Ticket-Out” payment system, commonly known as TITO. These tickets allow players to transfer credit or redeem winnings, with the suspects allegedly using counterfeit versions to collect money fraudulently.

The investigation subsequently led to the identification and arrest of two men on suspicion of a continuing fraud offence.

Suspects brought before judicial authorities

Both men have been brought before the judicial authorities, with the case papers submitted to the duty investigating court in Puerto del Rosario.

The operation was reported today (Wednesday). The precise dates of the arrests have not been disclosed.

The reported €45,000 represents the estimated amount allegedly defrauded. Police have confirmed the seizure of €2,809 in cash, rather than the recovery of the full suspected losses.