87-Year-Old Woman Evicted in Madrid Despite Mass Protest

• An 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen, was forcibly evicted from her home of 71 years in Madrid's Retiro neighborhood.
• Over 400 protesters and neighbors attempted to block the eviction but were cleared by a large police force.
• Reports indicate that police used force against activists and journalists gathered to support the resident.

Background of the Dispute

• Maricarmen had lived in the residence since the age of 17.
• The new property owner, Urbagestión S.L, raised the monthly rent from 500 euros to 2,650 euros.
• The Tenants' Union (Sindicato de Inquilinas) attempted to negotiate, but the owner refused all offers, including an anonymous pledge to cover 2,100 euros of the monthly rent.

Eviction Details

• The operation began at 6:00 AM with a heavy deployment of approximately 15 police vans and dozens of officers.
• Protesters had been camping out since September 22 to prevent the eviction, following a series of solidarity events.
• Access to the area was restricted, with police forcibly removing those attempting to document or protest the event.