Five people have been arrested following a National Police investigation into nine burglaries at homes in the south of Gran Canaria, including one property that was allegedly targeted four times.
The investigation began in August after a series of burglaries in which jewellery and cash were stolen and attempts were made to force open safes.
Police say the suspects allegedly operated as an organised group and selected residential properties to target.
One of the most significant aspects of the investigation is that one of those arrested reportedly worked installing and maintaining domestic alarm systems, potentially providing knowledge relevant to the security arrangements at properties.
Three caught during attempted burglary
The investigation accelerated when officers allegedly caught three members of the group during an attempted burglary at a villa.
According to the National Police, one suspect was seriously injured while attempting to escape by jumping over a wall.
The three were arrested, while subsequent investigations led officers to identify and arrest two more people allegedly connected to the group.
A total of five people have now been detained.
Following court proceedings, two of those arrested were remanded in custody.
Jewellery, cash and safes targeted
Investigators have linked the group to nine burglaries at residential properties across southern Gran Canaria.
The thieves allegedly targeted jewellery and cash and, in some cases, attempted to gain access to safes inside the properties.
One house was reportedly targeted on four separate occasions.
Police recovered property believed to have been stolen during the burglaries and seized various tools allegedly used to gain access to homes.
The recovered items are now being examined as part of the continuing investigation.
Alarm-system connection investigated
The alleged involvement of a person who worked with domestic alarm systems is one of the most concerning elements of the case.
Police are investigating whether information obtained through that work may have been used when selecting properties or planning burglaries.
No suggestion has been made that the alarm company itself was involved in any criminal activity.
The investigation remains open as officers determine whether the group could be connected to additional burglaries.
Advice for homeowners and residents
The case highlights the importance of basic security precautions for homeowners and people staying in holiday properties.
The National Police regularly advises residents to ensure doors and windows are properly secured, avoid leaving obvious signs that a property is unoccupied and report suspicious activity.
Valuable items and large amounts of cash should not be left in easily accessible locations, while any unusual activity around alarm systems or property security should be reported.
Anyone witnessing a burglary in progress or facing an immediate emergency should call 112.
