Madrid Police monitor radical groups at Puerta del Sol protest site

Spanish National Police have increased surveillance of radical groups surrounding the ongoing housing protest encampment in Madrid's Puerta del Sol. While the encampment has maintained a period without serious disturbances, authorities are concerned about potential clashes between groups with opposing ideologies.

Police sources indicate that the original organizers, primarily the Sindicato de Inquilinas, have seen their influence diminish as more radical organizations, such as the Coordinadora Juvenil Socialista (CJS), gain prominence. Tensions previously peaked on October 3, when clashes occurred involving members of the far-right group Núcleo Nacional and CJS members, resulting in three arrests.

The heightened security comes amid a complex political landscape, including the upcoming general elections scheduled for November 29 and preparations for a general strike. Police unions have warned that the accumulation of these events will increase operational demands on Intervention Units (UIP). Meanwhile, some police unions have criticized the organization of security deployments, alleging a lack of sufficient information and service orders for certain interventions.