Residents protest after eviction in Ibiza’s Can Negre district
The chants rose through the morning air: “We are not criminals, we are not criminals.” Those words echoed from the shantytown of Can Rova, in the Can Negre neighborhood of Ibiza, as residents took to the Sant Antoni road in a determined display of protest following an eviction carried out earlier that day. In the initial moments, approximately sixty affected individuals anchored themselves under a shelter on the land impacted by the eviction, awaiting the arrival of riot police. Their aim was to resist peacefully, but the crowded space soon forced them to move onto the roadway as the scene shifted dramatically.
The protest prompted a temporary disruption on the road near the Hipersuerte shopfront, with traffic halted for about ten minutes. Amidst the commotion, some participants surged toward passing vehicles, creating moments of tension and risk. Eyewitness accounts described several people needing medical assistance provided by a nearby ambulance that had been stationed in the area since early morning to respond to the incident.
As the clashes intensified briefly, a group of riot police remained inside the cleared plot to prevent a re-entry by residents while, at the same time, the Civil Guard managed traffic and worked to calm the agitated crowd. The authorities sought to maintain order and ensure the safety of everyone nearby while navigating the challenges posed by a rapid, evolving situation. The eviction that sparked the protest had been executed by local authorities, and the displaced residents faced uncertain housing arrangements in the immediate aftermath. Reports indicate a mix of emotions among those displaced, ranging from frustration and fear to a strong resolve to voice their concerns publicly.
The incident unfolded against a backdrop of ongoing housing pressures and policy debates in the region. Observers note that peaceful demonstrations can occur alongside aggressive tactics, highlighting the delicate balance between lawful protest and actions that threaten public safety. In Ibiza, as in many other communities, the rights of residents to secure shelter and to express grievances are increasingly intertwined with the practical realities of urban planning, emergency response, and law enforcement oversight. Authorities pledged to investigate the events surrounding the eviction while continuing to monitor the situation on the ground to prevent further disturbances and to protect the wellbeing of local residents, commuters, and onlookers alike.
Local officials emphasized the importance of addressing housing needs and ensuring that eviction procedures follow established legal processes, with minimal disruption to the surrounding community. Community leaders urged calm and urged residents to engage with municipal authorities through appropriate channels to discuss alternatives and potential solutions. As the road reopened and the initial surge of tension eased, the area gradually returned to normal, though the memories of the morning’s disruption lingered for many who witnessed it firsthand. The broader question remains: how can cities balance the urgent need for housing with the responsibilities of orderly urban management, while preserving safety and civil dialogue for all involved?