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Police Dismantle Alleged Cult in Canary Islands as Leader Is Remanded

Police say the group masked illicit control through santería-themed rites that targeted vulnerable people for cash.

Overview

  • Five suspects were arrested in coordinated actions in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, with four detained in Tenerife and one in Gran Canaria.
  • Charges include illicit association, animal cruelty, fraud, bodily harm, offences against public health, and document falsification.
  • A judge ordered provisional prison for the presumed leader, while the other detainees were released under precautionary measures.
  • Investigators report rituals involving animal sacrifice and the use of dangerous substances such as jimsonweed, poppers, and cocaine.
  • Police say several former followers required psychiatric care after leaving, and the probe remains open with tips invited at sectasdestructivas@policia.es.