The Guardia Civil has arrested a 41-year-old man in Tenerife, for a series of violent robberies, including an alarming incident where he robbed a supermarket wielding a large sickle. The crimes, committed while he was on temporary leave from prison, have caused significant concern and insecurity among local residents.
The suspect is accused of carrying out at least five burglaries at construction sites and two violent robberies at local businesses. At the construction sites, he broke in through doors or windows to steal materials such as electrical wiring, aluminium, and plumbing fixtures. These stolen goods were reportedly sold to second-hand material buyers.
However, in the most shocking of his crimes, the man entered a supermarket with his face covered and brandished a large sickle to intimidate employees. Security footage captured the dramatic moment when staff defended themselves with a wooden stick, forcing the attacker to flee. The incident prompted a swift response from the Guardia Civil, who launched an operation to locate and arrest the suspect.
The string of crimes, characterised by their frequency and violence, has created widespread alarm among the residents of La Orotava where they took place. The use of a weapon like a sickle heightened the sense of insecurity, particularly in a typically quiet community. Police acted promptly to address the situation, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring public safety.
The suspect, who has a long criminal history, was apprehended and presented before the local court in La Orotava. The judge ordered his immediate return to prison, ending his temporary release and bringing relief to the shaken community.
The Guardia Civil continues to investigate whether the suspect may be linked to additional crimes in the area. Meanwhile, the supermarket employees who bravely confronted the attacker are being praised for their quick thinking and courage in the face of danger.
