In Badalona, a detailed inquiry continues into a sexual assault incident reported last Saturday afternoon. The investigation is being led by the Mossos d’Esquadra through the Central Unit Against Sexual Assaults, UCAS, as officials scrutinize the circumstances surrounding a case involving a group of youths who were minors at the time of the alleged offense. News outlets and sources close to the investigation have confirmed to EFE that the unit is pursuing a fuller understanding of the events, gathering testimonies, evaluating digital evidence, and coordinating with local authorities to determine the sequence of actions and the identities of those involved. The focus remains on establishing what occurred, how it unfolded, and what protections must be extended to any potential victims while ensuring due process for those accused.
In recent months, the community has been reminded of a troubling pattern at the Màgic shopping center in Badalona, where a series of sexual assaults involving minors has come to light. Reports indicate that an 11-year-old girl was subjected to a sexual assault in November 2022, in a location known to be part of the center’s facilities, by a group of five youths. Some individuals among the group were not charged due to age or other legal factors that influenced the handling of that case. Additional incidents include an assault in August involving a child younger than 16 who was targeted by a larger group of offenders, and another case in which a minor under 14 was approached by an adult encountered through social media networks. There was also a report last January involving a minor younger than 13. Authorities are carefully reviewing each event, distinguishing between actions that may be criminal and those that require different forms of intervention, and considering the appropriate protective measures for minors in the vicinity of the shopping center. The breadth of these reports has prompted a broader discussion among local stakeholders about safeguarding measures, youth behavior, and the responsibilities of venues that serve as public gathering places.
The case remains under active assessment by the relevant police divisions, with prosecutors and child protection services optionally contributing to the ongoing review. Investigators are seeking to confirm the facts, verify timelines, and ensure that all parties receive fair treatment within the bounds of the law. The evolving nature of the case underscores the importance of transparent communication with the public, while preserving the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of minors involved. Officials emphasize that each allegation requires careful corroboration, and that authorities will act to protect communities as information becomes available through official channels. The situation continues to develop as more findings are gathered and documented through standard investigative procedures, with close collaboration among local law enforcement, judicial agencies, and support services dedicated to safeguarding children and addressing any long-term impacts on witnesses and families involved.