Five Arrested in Racist Attack on Moroccan Man at Málaga Airport

The incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday. According to eyewitness accounts, the brawl broke out following a dispute between taxi drivers and illegal drivers, the latter offering unauthorized transport services. The victim, who was also informally offering transport services, is said to have been targeted by the assailants.

The attack, captured on video by passengers in the arrivals terminal, was quickly circulated on social media. These images allowed the authorities to identify and arrest five suspects aged 24 to 36. Among them, four individuals have a criminal record for similar acts.

The Provincial Intelligence Brigade, in collaboration with the National Police Station at Málaga airport, has opened an investigation to clarify the exact circumstances of the attack. The suspects were arrested for hate crimes, public disturbances and injuries. The victim, who suffered trauma and multiple bruises, was taken care of by medical services.

The attack highlights the problem of unfair competition between taxis and illegal drivers. The latter, often operating in groups, particularly target foreign tourists, taking advantage of the language barrier to abuse them, the Málaga taxi drivers’ association has warned.

The taxi drivers at Málaga airport have long denounced the proliferation of illegal drivers and are calling for stricter measures to deter them. They are notably demanding increased control of VTCs (Vehicles for Hire with Driver) and more rigorous enforcement of current regulations.

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