Torre Pacheco, Spain – On Tuesday afternoon, nearly one hundred residents gathered in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Torre Pacheco to protest against immigration. The demonstration, called for by far-right groups, largely proceeded without major incidents, although there were moments of tension. A massive police presence remains stationed in the municipality to ensure security in the San Antonio neighborhood, an area characterized by a high concentration of Moroccan population and which has been the scene of repeated confrontations in recent days.
High Security Measures Before the Rally
Hours before the unauthorized rally – called in response to an alleged assault on a local resident by three young Moroccans last week – forces from the Guardia Civil and local police had already secured the Maghreb quarter. While the city center remained calm and the daily routine of a summer afternoon proceeded as usual, around 8:00 PM, demonstrators mobilized via social networks began to gather.
Slogans and Attacks on the Press
With chants like “Long live Spain!”, insults against Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and “Spanish press, manipulative!”, the participants of the protest expressed their discontent. Particularly noteworthy are the targeted attacks and harassment by ultras against journalists, especially RTVE employees. Some media representatives were forced to continue their live broadcasts from nearby Murcia, using lapel microphones to avoid being identified as reporters. This occurred after reporter Esther Yáñez was harassed during her work, and the Guardia Civil had to ask her to stop her reporting to avoid further agitating the heated atmosphere. Yáñez eventually left the demonstration accompanied by officers. However, she was not the only one insulted; other information professionals also faced hostility.
Political Presence and Authorities’ Measures
The rally took place after the Guardia Civil prevented several ultras from entering the Town Hall Square, asking them to leave the area. Among those present were Vito Quiles and Daniel Esteve from Desokopa, who left the demonstration in the afternoon at the request of the Guardia Civil. After their departure, representatives of the Workers’ Front and the Carlists addressed the media. They displayed the Spanish flag with the Sacred Heart of Jesus and sang the song “Cara al Sol.”
As darkness fell, the village visibly emptied. Shops, as in previous days, had closed early, fearing what might happen during the night. The police operation, involving over 140 officers on Tuesday, will continue throughout the night. There is concern that the demonstrators might attempt to enter the San Antonio neighborhood. Authorities remain on high alert to ensure public order and the safety of the population.
