Eviction Underway in Badalona
Police in northeastern Spain carried out a significant eviction operation on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, clearing an abandoned school building in Badalona, a city north of Barcelona. The operation targeted the former B9 school building, which had been occupied by approximately 400 migrants, many of whom were undocumented. Catalonia's regional police, the Mossos d'Esquadra, entered the premises early in the morning under court orders, though many occupants had already left in anticipation of the action.
Safety Concerns Prompt Judicial Order
The eviction was initiated due to serious safety concerns, with judicial authorities ruling the building unsafe. The Badalona town hall, led by conservative mayor Xavier García Albiol, had consistently argued that the squat posed a significant public safety hazard. This concern is underscored by a tragic 2020 factory fire in Badalona that killed four migrants living in another occupied building. Reports also indicated that the B9 building itself had been a site of various issues, including fights, thefts, drug-related incidents, a tuberculosis outbreak, and even a murder.
Migrant Demographics and Immediate Aftermath
The majority of the evicted individuals were sub-Saharan migrants, primarily from Senegal and Gambia, who had moved into the abandoned school since 2023. Many supported themselves by collecting and selling scrap metal, while some possessed valid residency and work permits but were unable to secure affordable housing. While the eviction proceeded largely without violence, there were moments of tension, and 18 individuals were detained on suspicion of residing in Spain without authorization.
Challenges for the Displaced
The judicial order mandates the Badalona town hall to provide the evicted individuals with access to social services; however, it does not oblige local authorities to find housing for all. Lawyer Marta Llonch, representing the squatters, expressed concern that many would be left without shelter, especially during the winter months. The town hall has indicated it will offer temporary housing to approximately 30 people, with Catalonia's regional social services assisting another 60 individuals who may also receive temporary accommodation.
5 Comments
Bella Ciao
While clearing unsafe buildings is necessary for public safety, it's worrying that so many will be left without shelter, especially given their vulnerable situation.
Comandante
Criminalizing poverty instead of solving the housing crisis. Shameful.
Leonardo
It's clear the building was a hazard, and the authorities acted legally, yet the humanitarian cost of leaving hundreds homeless, particularly migrants, is deeply concerning.
Raphael
It's about time they cleared out that dangerous place.
Leonardo
While the eviction was legally mandated due to severe safety concerns, it's a stark reminder of the broader issue of migrant housing and integration that governments struggle to address effectively.