Spanish Floods Spark Vigilante Groups

Spanish Floods Spark Vigilante Groups

kathimerini.gr

Spanish Floods Spark Vigilante Groups

Citizen vigilante groups form in flood-ravaged Spain, raising concerns about security and far-right involvement amid criticism of the government's response.

Greek
Greece
HealthClimate ChangeFar-RightRefugees And MigrationFloodsGovernment ResponsePublic AngerVigilantes
Spanish PoliceSpanish MilitarySpanish Government
King FelipePedro SánchezMartínThaida Puerta
What are the concerns and actions of these vigilante groups?
These groups, some with alleged far-right affiliations, patrol the streets armed with sticks and other tools, citing fears for their safety and the inadequacy of official security measures.
What prompted the formation of citizen vigilante groups in Paiporta, Valencia?
Following devastating floods in Spain, citizens formed vigilante groups in the Valencian neighborhood of Paiporta to deter reported thefts and looting due to perceived insufficient police response.
How has the Spanish government responded to the crisis and the subsequent security concerns?
The Spanish government deployed almost 15,000 police officers and military personnel to the Valencia region to aid in cleanup efforts and maintain order, with over 170 arrests reported.
What is the public sentiment regarding the governmental response to the flood and subsequent events?
Public anger has mounted over the perceived slow and inadequate response to the crisis, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez facing criticism and even mud-throwing during a visit to the affected area.
What are the differing views regarding the involvement of far-right elements within the vigilante groups?
While some vigilante groups deny extremist leanings, others openly display far-right symbols, highlighting the complex sociopolitical context of the situation.