Police and Social Intervention in Casa de Campo
In a coordinated operation that took place last Thursday morning, the Madrid Municipal Police dismantled an illegal camp housing over 40 homeless individuals in the iconic Casa de Campo. This eviction was carried out without incidents, thanks to collaboration with teams from Samur Social, who offered housing alternatives to those affected.
The settlement had grown significantly in recent weeks, spreading to areas near the Las Estrellas fountain and other adjacent zones. Local residents had expressed concern over the unsanitary conditions and the increase in insecurity generated by this camp. Authorities decided to act after receiving multiple complaints about the negative impact on the community.
Despite Samur Social's efforts to provide assistance, only 10 of the more than 40 evicted individuals accepted the available housing options. Many chose to reject these offers, claiming they preferred to stay on the streets. One of the evicted commented: “I prefer to stay outside, I feel safer”, reflecting a complex reality where the fear of the unknown can outweigh current hardships.
From the City Council, there has been a reiterated commitment to proper management of public space and comprehensive care for homeless individuals. A spokesperson stated: “We will interview them to learn more about their situation and assess the available resources”. However, they also acknowledged that they cannot force anyone to accept help, which further complicates this social issue.
Since the beginning of 2025, Madrid has dismantled a total of 622 illegal settlements. This figure highlights the magnitude of the homelessness problem in the Spanish capital. The Municipal Police has assured that it will continue its efforts to establish links with these vulnerable individuals and offer sustainable housing solutions.
As this process progresses, it is evident that a multifaceted approach is required to address not only the symptoms of homelessness but also its underlying causes. The intervention in these settlements is considered a complex yet essential challenge to ensure both public safety and social well-being.
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