Residents in El Vendrell, Tarragona, are experiencing relief after authorities began evicting criminals from a block of flats on Josep Carner street. The building, which had been occupied for two years, was the source of numerous incidents, including fires, fights, and stabbings, according to local reports.
The problems started in early 2024 when several individuals occupied the long-abandoned block. Police, including the Mossos d'Esquadra and local police, responded to frequent calls. Incidents included two young North African men stabbing each other outside the building and a construction worker being injured by a pellet gun shot from the property. Small fires were also a concern, with neighbours fearing explosions due to butane gas cylinders used for heating in winter.
Judicial Action Brings Evictions
Despite repeated police interventions, the occupants consistently reconnected illegally cut electricity and water supplies. However, a turning point came on 20 April when seven flats were emptied by judicial order. These properties were then boarded up to prevent re-occupation.
Eight flats belonging to other owners still have occupants, but further evictions are expected soon. Authorities are also moving to evict criminals from another occupied block on Montsià street, following a recent inspection there.
Wider Issue Across Catalonia
The issue of occupied properties causing problems for residents is not unique to El Vendrell; it affects communities across Catalonia. In Girona, efforts are underway to address a block on Ronda Ferran Puig that has become a haven for repeat offenders. Meanwhile, in Ponts, some residents have been forced to leave their homes due to an occupied building infested with rats and filth.
Moving forward, local authorities in El Vendrell and other affected areas will continue to use legal channels to address these occupations. The focus remains on restoring peace and safety for residents impacted by such situations.
