Sexual Assault Allegations Spark Investigation into Care of Minors in Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain – Spanish authorities have launched an investigation following allegations of sexual assault involving three minors under the care of the Canary Islands government. A complaint filed Wednesday with the Fiscal Office of Santa Cruz de Tenerife details concerns over the handling of the case and the potential failings of the child protection system.
The allegations stem from an incident during the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival on February 16th, when the three girls, aged 14 and 15, went missing after being authorized to attend nighttime events. They were under the supervision of Aldeas Infantiles, a care center managing their protection. The girls were absent for several days before reappearing, and their parents and advocacy groups Gaveta 20A and Arcan allege that during this time, they were sexually assaulted.
While the exact circumstances remain unclear, the complaint alleges the girls engaged in sexual relations with men. A key concern raised by the complainants is the alleged delay in activating standard medical and forensic protocols following the girls’ return. Spanish law stipulates that consent is insufficient when dealing with minors under 16, and advocates argue immediate medical attention and evidence collection were crucial.
“We are talking about girls under public guardianship,” stated representatives of Gaveta 20A and Arcan. “The first thing that should have been done upon their return was to immediately activate medical and protection protocols. That did not happen.”
Beyond the alleged assaults, the complaint highlights what it describes as “serious irregularities” in the actions of the responsible administrations and the care center. Specifically, the decision to allow the minors to attend an adult-oriented, crowded nighttime event, the lapse in supervision that led to their disappearance, and the perceived lack of immediate medical and protective response are under scrutiny.
The groups are calling for a thorough review of the Canary Islands’ child protection system, citing concerns that a failure to adequately protect these vulnerable minors points to systemic issues. They are also requesting that Candelaria Delgado, the Canary Islands’ Minister of Social Welfare, and officials responsible for the child protection system appear before the Canary Islands Parliament to address the allegations.
“What is at stake is not only this specific case, but the functioning of the child protection system in the Canary Islands,” the groups stated. “If a minor under guardianship can disappear for two days and then basic protection protocols are not activated, we are facing a very serious institutional problem.”
The case has sparked public outcry and renewed debate about the safety and well-being of children in care. Further investigation is underway to determine the facts and address the concerns raised by the complainants.