Lanzarote Takes Strong Stance Against Illegal Transport Practices
Oswaldo Betancort, the President of the Lanzarote and La Graciosa Cabildo, has vowed to eliminate illegal transport services on the islands. He stated, “We won’t allow unregulated practices to jeopardise the safety of our residents and tourists, nor undermine the livelihoods of families who comply with the law.” Betancort assured that the local authorities will coordinate with security forces to remove lawbreakers from the roads.
The Cabildo is intensifying efforts to crack down on illegal vehicles operating on the island. Focus will be on unauthorised drivers and “pirate taxis” that pick up passengers clandestinely or arrange illegal transport services through unofficial mobile apps and messaging platforms like WhatsApp.
Authorities are urging both residents and visitors to avoid these illegal services and use licensed transport instead.
Transport and Mobility Councillor Miguel Ángel Jiménez highlighted the real dangers posed to users of these vehicles. “We want to make it clear that these cars lack necessary technical and safety certifications, do not guarantee safe conditions, and their drivers have no valid qualifications. Passengers are also at risk of fraud and lack mandatory insurance coverage, which licensed services provide,” he noted.
Recent actions include the detention of a repeat offender in Arrecife who was found to be transporting too many passengers in a private vehicle. This incident marks the beginning of enhanced collaboration between the Cabildo’s Transport Inspection and the Arrecife Local Police. Jiménez praised the officers’ efforts, stating that this operation initiates a coordinated approach to increase inspections and remove unlicensed vehicles from the roads.
The Cabildo also reminds offenders that, under local transport regulations, penalties for illegal operations can reach between €4,001 and €6,000, and vehicles may be immobilised immediately. Such fines are separate from any civil or criminal liabilities arising from traffic accidents.
Finally, the Cabildo emphasises the unfair competition posed by these clandestine transport services, which directly impacts the regulated taxi industry and threatens the local economy. This situation is particularly unjust for legitimate professionals who diligently meet their financial, insurance, and licensing obligations while providing safe services to the community.
