Torre Pacheco, a town in south-east Spain, has witnessed a second night of anti-migrant unrest following an attack on a sixty-eight-year-old pensioner. Reports indicate that the man was assaulted by three young individuals of North African origin, with the incident filmed and shared on social media. In response, local authorities have stated that at least one arrest has been made amidst the chaos, which has left several other people injured.

Despite a heavy police presence in the town, groups armed with batons patrolled the streets seeking individuals with foreign origins. The situation escalated after a demonstration, initially organised by the town hall to promote peace, was reportedly disrupted by far-right elements who shouted anti-migrant slogans.

The regional government has urged residents to remain calm, with the conservative leader of the Murcian government, Fernando López Miras, declaring the need for Torre Pacheco to return to normal. He acknowledged the frustration among residents but emphasised that violence is unjustifiable.

Spain’s youth minister, Sira Rego, condemned the violence against migrants, attributing the unrest to actions of the ultra-right. Local officials continue to navigate this tense situation as they attempt to restore peace within the community of thirty-six thousand residents.