Police shooting of Senegalese national in Hondarribia

On September 28, 46-year-old Senegalese national Babacar Welle was killed by municipal police in Hondarribia, Spain. According to the Basque Government’s Security Department, officers responded to reports of a man threatening people with a knife. Officials stated that Welle allegedly attempted to stab an Ertzaintza officer multiple times, leading a municipal officer to fire three shots to repel the attack.

The incident has drawn criticism from various organizations. Horizon Sans Frontières (HSF) called for transparency and a thorough investigation. Following the shooting, the Manko Senegal association challenged the official account, with spokesperson Binta Sarr arguing that the officer could have subdued Welle without lethal force and noting that Welle was shot in the back. The association also highlighted that Welle’s mental health issues were known to authorities.

In response to the death, dozens of people gathered in Hondarribia to protest and hold a vigil at the site of the shooting. Hondarribia Mayor Igor Enparan described the incident as a sign of social breakdown and noted that Welle had been receiving social services. The municipality has confirmed that the officer involved has been removed from duty.