Tenerife South Luggage Theft Ring Dismantled: What Happened and How to Keep Your Belongings Safe
Saturday, October 18th, 2025
Tenerife South Luggage Theft Ring Dismantled: What Happened and How to Keep Your Belongings Safe
Major Theft Ring Uncovered at Tenerife South Airport
A major police investigation into thefts from passengers’ checked luggage at Tenerife South Airport has led to the arrest and investigation of 95 people, including airline and baggage-handling staff. The Guardia Civil has described the case as one of the largest of its kind ever discovered in the international air transport sector.
The investigation, known as Operation Oretel and later expanded into Operation BORO-TF, began in 2022 after numerous complaints from passengers reporting missing items from their checked suitcases. Officers examined more than 1,000 international flights and uncovered 330 confirmed cases of theft, most involving tourists from outside Spain.
How the Thefts Were Carried Out
Investigators found that members of the theft network, some working directly at the airport, had developed a range of methods to access passengers’ belongings without being detected.
According to police reports, baggage handlers and associated staff opened suitcases while they were in the aircraft hold, out of view of security cameras. In some cases, they punctured zippers using ballpoint pens or similar objects, allowing them to open and reseal bags without leaving obvious signs of tampering.
Over the course of the operation, police inspected close to 30 “compro oro” (“cash-for-gold”) jewellery shops and several online sales platforms, uncovering more than 800 sales linked to stolen goods worth around €1.9 million. Further searches of airport workers’ lockers and homes recovered luxury watches, jewellery, electronics, designer clothing, and other articles.
In later stages, investigators examined the mobile phones of the main suspects, analysing a vast amount of data. The evidence revealed that the network often sold stolen items to colleagues, friends, or relatives, and even accepted “custom orders” for specific valuables. In one intercepted conversation, the thieves discussed a stolen suitcase containing €100,000 in cash.
Police Success and Ongoing Security Oversight
The Fiscal and Border Investigation Unit (UDAIFF) at Tenerife South Airport led the investigation, supported by the USECIC (a special operational unit within Spain’s Guardia Civil) and Judicial Police. The Guardia Civil has now concluded the case, describing it as an unprecedented operation in the European aviation sector.
Although no official statement has yet confirmed new security measures, it is understood that airport operations have come under much closer supervision. The exposure of this network has already led to tighter controls, improved surveillance, and heightened awareness among airport authorities.
How Travellers Can Protect Their Luggage
While airports and airlines are increasing oversight, passengers can also take practical steps to protect their belongings from theft or tampering.
1. Use a Hard-Shell Suitcase
Rigid, polycarbonate suitcases are more difficult to puncture or open than soft fabric ones. Choose a model with integrated locks and reinforced zippers.
2. Add a Luggage Lock or Tamper-Evident Seal
A visible lock can deter opportunistic theft. For extra security, use tamper-evident cable ties or zipper seals. If they’re cut, you’ll know immediately that your bag has been opened.
3. Use “Double Zipper” or Anti-Puncture Zipper Systems
Some premium luggage brands use interlocking double zippers, which can’t be forced open with a pen. This directly prevents the “punctured zipper” method used in the Tenerife thefts.
4. Get Your Suitcase Wrapped or Use a Suitcase Cover
Thieves tend to target suitcases that can be accessed quickly and with minimal effort. Although wrapping your suitcase or using a protective cover won’t make it completely secure, it will slow down any attempt to open it, and that extra effort is often enough to deter an opportunistic thief.
5. Keep Valuables in Your Hand Luggage
Never check in jewellery, electronics, cash, or important documents. Airlines rarely compensate for high-value items stolen from checked baggage.
6. Make Your Bag Easy to Identify
A unique luggage strap or bright tag makes it easier to spot your suitcase and less likely to be tampered with or swapped.
7. Track Your Luggage
Attach a Bluetooth or GPS tracker (such as an AirTag or Tile) inside your suitcase to locate it quickly if it goes missing or deviates from its expected route.
8. Report Any Suspicious Damage or Missing Items Immediately
If you notice broken zips or missing items when collecting your bag, report it before leaving the arrivals area. File a claim with the airline and the airport police straight away.
Travel with Confidence
Although these incidents have understandably raised concerns, it’s important to remember that they involved a specific criminal network that has now been completely dismantled. Tenerife South Airport remains one of Spain’s busiest and most important international gateways, handling millions of passengers safely every year. The successful police operation has sent a strong message and prompted a renewed focus on baggage security.
With improved vigilance, better awareness, and a few smart precautions, travellers can continue to enjoy a safe and worry-free journey to and from Tenerife.