Police dismantle affordable housing protest camp in Madrid, city authorities say

On Tuesday morning, the police dismantled a housing protest camp in Madrid's Puerta del Sol after more than a month, removing 334 individuals from the square and arresting two people. The operation followed the eviction of Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman who had lived in her home for over 70 years, and her death two weeks later at a hospital. The encampment had been established on September 26th, becoming a focal point for protests concerning housing costs and tenant protections.

Around 400 officers, comprising 220 from the National Police and 180 from Madrid's Municipal Police, participated in the clearance, along with firefighters and social services personnel. Much of the square remained cordoned off early Tuesday as cleaning teams began clearing the site. The central government's delegation in Madrid claimed the operation had been peaceful, stating that the camp's circumstances and purpose had changed after some participating organizations withdrew.

However, protest organisers accused the police of using force, alleging several injuries, including pepper spray use and forcibly taken mobile phones.

Camp spokesperson Juan Luis Sánchez claimed the clearance began at 2.55am without warning, describing it as "very chaotic" and alleging police violence. Organizers said several people were injured by blows or tear gas. In a separate statement, the camp's social media account showed officers dismantling tents as protesters tried to stay together to prevent removal. Around 4am, participants publicized the clearance on social media, with some complaining they could not collect their belongings.

Madrid city council sources claimed the eviction occurred without violence, stating that two people were arrested for disobedience and resisting officers. Cleaning services were responsible for moving the tents to council storage facilities, where their owners could reclaim them. The housing protest had its roots in Abascal's eviction due to a significant rent increase by the property company. Her death, combined with rising housing costs, sparked wider anger over affordability and led to demonstrations across Spain.