Tenerife Carnival: Suspected Needle Attack Raises Security Concerns

Security at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival has been questioned after several concerning events, including a new report of someone possibly being drugged with a needle. According to DIARIO DE AVISOS, a man was attacked this way early on Carnival Saturday. This incident is particularly alarming because it follows pepper spray attacks that happened on Carnival Monday.

The suspected needle attack took place around 2:00 AM on Valentín Sanz street, near Plaza del Chicharro. The victim reported the incident to the National Police on Monday, February 16, describing it as a random attack. He felt a prick in his left backside, and then quickly became very dizzy, had trouble walking, and his vision blurred.

Medical staff at the scene confirmed a needle mark. He was then taken to the Field Hospital and later to Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria University Hospital. However, drug tests came back negative. Despite this, the man believes he was drugged, suggesting the substance and amount might have been chosen to avoid detection. These "needle prick" attacks have become a worry at large events recently, making security even harder.

This new case adds to problems on Carnival Monday, when at least fifteen people were affected by random pepper spray use. Five of them needed medical help for eye irritation and breathing problems after the spray was released between the El Águila area and San José street.

Because these events are serious, the National Police have started an investigation to find those responsible. The man who reported the needle prick wants to push authorities to find out what happened and also warn other Carnival-goers. His advice is to immediately go to the medical services available at the Carnival if you suspect you've been pricked by a needle, even before you feel any symptoms. Emergency and security services have stressed how important it is to follow these instructions.