The incident occurred last Tuesday afternoon, when Rural Guards alerted agents to the visitors' activity. Upon arrival, it was confirmed that the couple, a middle-aged German couple, had extracted the protected plant, the red tajinaste (Echium wildpretii), and were also carrying several rocks from the natural environment.

Following the intervention, the collected material was confiscated, and the offenders were identified. A corresponding infringement report was filed, and the couple now faces potential financial penalties that could amount to up to 1,500 euros.

The Cabildo de Tenerife has reiterated the importance of conserving the island's natural spaces, reminding visitors of the need to respect native flora and fauna to preserve the environmental heritage.