This Thursday morning, a high-tension situation unfolded in Madrid's Carnero Street, where the fifth eviction attempt of a 67-year-old resident was scheduled. Dozens of people, mostly young, gathered from early morning to show their support and prevent the action, promoted by a religious order that owns the property.
“"A street full of police vans to evict a person who has been in their home for 67 years."
The situation escalated when two individuals hung themselves from the patio window of the residence, as part of a strategy to pressure authorities. This action put the activists' safety at risk, requiring the intervention of the Fire Department, who placed a safety mat beneath them. The Tenants' Union has denounced the scale of the police deployment and the unprecedented nature of such operations.
“"The Government delegate is responsible for what is happening and must stop it."
The affected resident has lived his entire life in the property, which the Venerable Third Order of Saint Francis of Assisi, known as VOT or Secular Franciscan Order (OFS), now seeks to renovate. The dwelling has serious structural problems, with the kitchen ceiling having collapsed since November 8, rendering several rooms unusable. The resident is forced to shower at friends' houses and find alternatives for cooking.
The property owner is only willing to carry out the necessary works if the resident vacates the apartment. The Tenants' Union has reported that a group of mediating lawyers was not allowed to speak with the Judicial Commission, calling the incident “unheard of.” For now, the eviction has not been executed, but there is no confirmation of its halt or postponement.
