Benidorm police have issued a fresh warning over a notorious street scam, urging people not to take part in the illegal gambling game.

It comes after a recent fight involving suspected operators went viral online.

In a social media post this week, the city’s Local Police shared a video demonstrating how the con works and reminded the public that participating can lead to financial penalties.

The force accompanied the footage with a simple message: ‘Don’t play.’

The game, commonly known as the shell game or three-card trick, involves players attempting to guess where a hidden object has been placed after it is rapidly moved between cups, shells or other objects.

While it may appear possible to win, police warn that the game is heavily manipulated and often run by organised groups working together to deceive unsuspecting tourists.

In the video shared by officers, potatoes are used to demonstrate how easily players can be tricked into believing they have a chance of winning.

It shows how the small pea can be moved between two potato halves without the victim noticing.

‘We’ll explain the trick, but let’s make a deal,’ the force wrote. ‘Don’t play.’

Police reminded the public that operating or participating in the game on public streets is prohibited under regional gambling laws and local municipal regulations.

They also warned that any money involved can be confiscated by authorities.

‘Don’t make our job more difficult – don’t play,’ the force added. ‘Without your cooperation we cannot combat this illegal practice.’

The warning comes after footage of a violent confrontation involving suspected trile operators circulated widely on social media, once again drawing attention to the scam, which has long been associated with busy tourist hotspots across Spain.

Authorities are advising visitors that if they see a game taking place in the street, the safest option is simply to walk away.