Spanish prosecutors have moved to bring nine individuals to trial following a series of armed robberies targeting casinos and gambling halls in southern Gran Canaria during the summer of 2023.
According to an indictment filed by the Las Palmas Public Prosecutor’s Office with Court of Instruction No. 6, the group is accused of carrying out coordinated attacks on multiple gaming venues between July and August of that year.
Investigators allege the network operated with a clear hierarchical structure and relied on rental vehicles to avoid identification.
The cars, reportedly collected from Gran Canaria Airport, were frequently changed after each robbery.
Prosecutors claim the alleged ringleaders used third parties to rent the vehicles, offering small cash payments or drugs in exchange for acting as nominal renters, thereby distancing themselves from the contracts.
Court documents describe a consistent operational pattern. While some members remained outside to monitor surroundings, others entered premises armed with knives, threatening staff and quickly emptying cash registers.
Targets included the Arinaga Casino, the Arucas Bingo Hall and several gaming arcades in municipalities such as Vecindario, Telde and Santa María de Guía.
Authorities estimate the total amount stolen exceeded €35,000 ($41,000).
The alleged crime spree came to an end on 16 August 2023, following a robbery at a Sportium betting shop in Cruce de Arinaga. Shortly afterwards, the group was stopped at a Civil Guard checkpoint while attempting to switch vehicles again.
Officers reportedly discovered cash, along with licence plates linked to a previous robbery, in the boot of the replacement car.
Prosecutors are seeking prison sentences of up to nine years and six months for those accused of leading and carrying out the robberies, citing repeated armed robbery, participation in a criminal organisation and traffic offences.
Individuals accused of facilitating vehicle rentals face sentences of up to four and a half years.
Financial compensation for stolen funds is also being sought.
Spain’s gambling sector operates under strict regulatory oversight, with both national and regional authorities responsible for enforcement and venue security standards
