Algerian and Moroccan Inmates Clash in Spanish Prison, Sparking Security Concerns

The first incident occurred on January 1, when a group of inmates fought with punches and kicks in the prison yard. Several prison officers had to intervene to subdue these very aggressive inmates and restore order. After this event, tensions rose between the Algerian and Moroccan inmates, leading to a second incident on January 10 where a violent brawl broke out between two inmates. The agents again called for reinforcements to be able to control the situation, reports H50.

According to the usual procedure, the inmates involved should have been placed in temporary isolation to guarantee the safety of the center, the staff and the other inmates. But after discussions with the director of the center, the latter decided to let them return to their cells. A few minutes later, a new fight was recorded between the same inmates, forcing the agents to mobilize again to limit the damage. This time, temporary isolation was applied.

The tension, still high between Moroccan and Algerian inmates, led to violent clashes on January 14 between rival groups. The prison officers again called for reinforcements to bring the situation under control. Several inmates, identified as "ringleaders", were placed in isolation following this incident. But this was not enough to calm the spirits, the inmates remaining confident that the temporary isolation would eventually be lifted. Only 24 hours after these extremely violent events, the persons concerned were reintegrated.

As could be expected, another incident involving the same inmates released from temporary isolation occurred on January 16. This time, the inmates were more aggressive, both towards their rivals and the agents. Temporary isolations were again ordered and lifted a few days later. The APFP salutes the professionalism of the prison officers of this center, despite the difficult working conditions. It calls on the authorities to adopt strong and permanent measures to avoid this type of incident and allow the agents to do their job properly.