Two arrested over illegal workshop exploiting foreign workers in Lanzarote
Two people have been arrested in Arrecife after police uncovered a hidden workshop where foreign workers were allegedly being exploited in unsafe and illegal conditions. The discovery has raised concerns over hidden labour abuse in the capital of Lanzarote.
The operation began earlier this month following a tip-off from the public about a suspected illegal business operating in the area. Officers launched an investigation, which led them to a welding workshop believed to be employing workers without proper legal status.
During an inspection carried out while the workshop was operating, police identified three foreign workers in an irregular situation. They were found carrying out welding tasks without the required safety equipment or basic protective measures.
Officers also discovered makeshift sleeping areas inside the premises, including several beds. This pointed to extremely poor living conditions and suggested the workers may have been living on-site in a situation of serious exploitation.
Investigators concluded that the business was operating illegally and was in clear breach of labour laws, as well as failing to meet basic safety and dignity standards for workers.
Two people have now been arrested as suspected perpetrators of offences against workers’ rights and the rights of foreign nationals. They have been brought before a judge, and the case has also been referred to the Labour and Social Security Inspectorate.
Police have reiterated their commitment to tackling labour exploitation, particularly in cases involving vulnerable people and hidden illegal operations. They are urging anyone with information about similar activities to report it confidentially via the official police website.
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