The National Police in Zaragoza detained a homeless man, born in 1992 in Morocco, on suspicion of burning the face of a 64-year-old homeless woman from Morocco, who had previously refused his sexual advances in the open area where they both slept. Reports from a major regional newspaper indicate that the alleged aggressor lent the victim a blanket to keep her warm and, when she awoke, her face showed signs of a burn and traces of blood. Emergency records from the Miguel Servet University Hospital show burns on the face, hands, and feet that required ongoing treatment.
The incident was described by the victim yesterday as she rested on a bench near the Delicias Norte health center, located on Santa Orosia Street in the capital. The victim approached the center when she realized the severity of her injuries, and a passing woman notified the emergency room. She was immediately transferred to the hospital given the seriousness of the wounds.
Rachina later recalled the kindness of the woman who alerted authorities and expressed gratitude to the police for the care they provided. She told investigators that the attacker had previously pressured her to have sex and that the motive for the assault seemed to be retaliation for her refusals. Rachina voiced clear concerns that the man intended to end her life, remaining visibly worried and emotionally affected.
The Homicide Group of the Aragón Police Headquarters began coordinating the search for the suspect. A patrol team of the Citizen Security Brigade located him on March 17 inside a bar along Calanda promenade. Officers found a large knife in his belongings and restrained him with care due to the suspect’s pronounced aggressiveness. His immigration status in Spain was irregular, and he has a record of multiple detentions for offenses including property damage, theft, illegal entry, and other judicial claims.
Rachina explained to investigators that she slept on a bench near Delicias Norte when she woke to the pain of a burning face and visible blood loss. From a distance, she saw the man fleeing, recalling that he had lent her a blanket to keep warm. She did not know him well, as she also slept outdoors in the same area and he had previously pressured her to engage in sexual activity.
Rachina believes the aftermath was an act of revenge, causing burns to the face, hands, and feet. The case was referred to Instructing Court No. 11 of Zaragoza, which was on duty that Sunday, March 17.
(Source: El Periódico de Aragón).