Lanzarote: Thefts and drug trafficking decrease, but sexual offenses increase

The first quarter of 2026 shows a 4.1% general crime reduction on the island, despite a 17.6% rise in sexual offenses.

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IA

Generic image of blue and red emergency lights with an abstract trend graph.

The island of Lanzarote and La Graciosa recorded a general decrease in crime of 4.1% between January and March 2026, with 1,712 criminal cases processed, although sexual offenses saw a concerning 17.6% rise.

Security forces, including the National Police, Civil Guard, and local police, concluded the first quarter of 2026 with 1,712 investigated crimes across the island of Lanzarote. This figure represents an overall 4.1% decrease in criminality compared to the same period last year.
However, a significant increase was observed in offenses against sexual freedom, which rose by 17.6% compared to 2025. Twenty complaints were filed in this category, including half a dozen cases of aggravated sexual assault.
In contrast, thefts experienced a notable reduction of 19.9%, with 444 incidents recorded in Lanzarote and La Graciosa. Drug trafficking cases also decreased by 18.8% (13 complaints), and burglaries in properties fell by 2.6% (38 cases).
Cybercrime also contributed to the overall reduction, with 176 complaints and a 10.6% decrease. No fatal incidents were recorded in this first quarter, although the death of an infant in Tinajo is being investigated as negligent homicide, according to previous reports.
The municipality of Tías stands out with a 12.6% decrease in criminality, registering 325 complaints and no cases of vehicle theft or drug trafficking.
Arrecife, the most populous municipality, recorded 636 complaints, a 1.4% decrease from the previous year, although 13 violent brawls were reported, an increasing trend.
In Teguise, 171 complaints were processed, with a 2.8% reduction and no reported car thefts. The municipalities of San Bartolomé, Yaiza, Haría, and Tinajo collectively accounted for approximately 580 criminal complaints, with a modest decrease of around 1%.