Crackdown on Unlicensed Taxi Services at Tenerife South Airport Gains Momentum

In a decisive move to combat the growing issue of illegal public transport operations, the Granadilla de Abona Council has launched a comprehensive initiative at Tenerife South Airport. This operation is designed to tackle the persistent problem of unlicensed taxi services that have been undermining the local transport industry.

Joint Efforts with Law Enforcement Agencies

This extensive operation is a collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, aimed specifically at curbing the rising number of so-called “pirate taxis.” These unlicensed vehicles are illegally transporting passengers, often using private cars, which poses significant risks to both safety and the local economy.

The local taxi industry has voiced serious concerns regarding these illegal operations, emphasizing that they not only create unfair competition but also jeopardize the integrity of regulated taxi services. The presence of unlicensed taxis can lead to a decline in trust among passengers who rely on safe and reliable transport options.

Details of Inspections and Findings

The operation was executed in collaboration with the Canary Islands Government’s Transport Department and the Directorate General of Transport, alongside various police units, including the Granadilla de Abona Local Police and the Canary Islands Police. The primary objective was to ensure that both tourists and residents have access to safe and legal transport alternatives.

During the operation, authorities conducted thorough inspections of a total of 15 private vehicles and 11 minibuses. The enforcement team included three officers from the GRUTE (Group for the Regulation of Urban Transport), four local police officers, and a patrol unit from the Canary Islands Police. This robust deployment underscores the seriousness of the initiative and the commitment to maintaining order in the transport sector.

As a result of these inspections, law enforcement reported several significant incidents. Authorities discovered two cases of drug possession and recorded two positive drug tests. Additionally, there were two traffic-related violations that were addressed by the Local Police. Furthermore, the Canary Islands Police issued six penalties specifically targeting illegal passenger transport, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by regulatory bodies in maintaining compliance within the transport industry.

Plans for Ongoing Operations

In light of the operation’s outcomes, authorities have confirmed that similar initiatives will be conducted in the future. This commitment reflects a broader strategy to uphold regulated transport services and ensure the safety of passengers using these services. The focus remains firmly on protecting the local taxi sector while fostering a fair competitive environment.

Officials have indicated that these initiatives are expected to intensify, with law enforcement agencies prepared to implement stricter measures against illegal taxi operations. The overarching goal is to safeguard the integrity and safety of transport services, ensuring that both residents and visitors can rely on legitimate and trustworthy transportation options.

As the local taxi industry continues to advocate for fair competition, the Granadilla de Abona Council’s proactive approach serves as a critical step in addressing the challenges posed by illegal transport services. The ongoing collaboration between various agencies is essential in creating a safer and more regulated transport environment at Tenerife South Airport.

Key points

• Granadilla de Abona Council launched an operation against illegal taxi services at Tenerife South Airport.
• The initiative targeted unlicensed “pirate taxis” operating unlawfully.
• Collaboration included the Canary Islands Government’s Transport Department and various police units.
• Inspections involved 15 private cars and 11 minibuses, resulting in several violations.
• Authorities plan to continue similar operations to protect regulated transport services.
• The local taxi sector has raised concerns about unfair competition from illegal services.