Spanish judge investigates pepper spray incident involving deputy Ana Vázquez

A Madrid judge has opened a preliminary investigation into an incident involving Ana Vázquez, a Spanish deputy from the People's Party (PP), regarding the display of pepper spray during a parliamentary session.

The incident occurred on September 23 during a government control session. While questioning the Minister of the Interior, Vázquez displayed a pepper spray canister. Following the session, an advisor for the PP attempted to clean the spray in the Congress bathrooms, resulting in approximately 20 people being affected by the toxic gas. This led to the sealing of several areas within the Congress building.

Judge Pedro Merchante has initiated proceedings for alleged injury, though he has requested that complainants provide the necessary medical reports to complete the formal complaint. While the Congress had previously opened an internal disciplinary file against Vázquez, the dissolution of the legislature prevented the implementation of a proposed one-week suspension of pay and employment.