Tensions flared in Torre-Pacheco, southeastern Spain, after a 70-year-old man was attacked by a group of young Moroccan migrants during his early morning walk near the local cemetery.
The victim, Domingo, said the assault came without warning. Investigators believe the attack was part of a “viral challenge” on social media that encourages violence against vulnerable people. Although the attackers searched his pockets, they left his watch untouched, suggesting robbery was not the motive. Domingo is now recovering at home.
Violent confrontations and police response
The assault sparked violent clashes between far-right groups, local residents, and migrants over the weekend. Videos showed people throwing objects and fighting. Some far-right individuals wore clothing with their group’s symbols, while migrants carried Moroccan flags.
Officials reported five people were injured and arrested one suspect. Authorities expect more arrests as they continue their investigation. They have increased police presence by deploying additional Guardia Civil officers.
Torre-Pacheco has just over 40,000 residents. About one-third are foreign-born, many working as day labourers in agriculture, which supports the local economy.
Local leaders condemned the violence and called for calm. The town’s mayor requested more police resources and plans to install security cameras in public areas. Regional politicians urged residents to avoid hate speech and stop inciting violence.
This unrest echoes a similar situation in 2000, when anti-immigration protests broke out in El Ejido, southern Spain. Those protests also involved clashes between locals and migrants.
The situation remains tense. Community leaders and officials continue efforts to prevent further violence and address the root causes.
