The case of the eviction of the illegal settlement of Can Rovacarried out in July, has taken an unexpected turn after the filing of complaints by several affected people. These accuse the police of irregularities in the operation, increasing the controversy over a problem that continues to mark the social agenda in Ibiza. Sources from the Santa Eulària Town Hall assure that legal procedures were rigorously followed during the eviction, which took place in compliance with a court ruling. “If a complaint has been filed, it will be up to the judge to decide,” they pointed out, stressing that they will not issue any further statements while the judicial process runs its course. The eviction, executed on July 31, responded to the demand of the co-owners of the site, who denounced the occupation of their land. More than 170 people were evicted, also uncovering a network of exploitation that charged up to 700 euros per month to reside on the site. The City Council and the Balearic Government have fined the marketer with penalties exceeding 3.3 million euros.
Social impact and relocations
After the operation, several of the affected people moved to another private lot nearby, creating a new source of conflict. The situation highlights the lack of resources and housing solutions on the island, while the authorities try to manage the growing social pressure resulting from squatting. The City Council defends that the objective of the eviction was to stop an illegal activity and guarantee the rights of the owners, but the discomfort of those affected and the recent complaints show a deeper problem, related to the housing crisis in Ibiza. The resolution of this case will not only determine the future of the complaints, but could set a precedent for future similar operations on the island.
