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Rabat – Bishop of Cartagena, Jose Manuel Lorca Planes, has issued a public statement regarding the anti-migrant violence that erupted against North African migrants, especially Moroccans, in Murcia, Spain.
In his statement, published by Vatican News, the bishop stressed that violence is “not a solution,” emphasizing that the situation contributes to a “deeper sense of fear and unease.”
A large wave of Islamophobic attacks, xenophobia, and anti-migrant sentiment has been ongoing in Spain since Friday last week following the assault of a 68-year-old Spaniard.
Converging reports claimed three youths of North African origin had beaten him up, but an ongoing investigation has yet to determine the circumstances of the case.
Reports have confirmed arrests made by authorities, including 11 people apprehended for their involvement in the assault as well as anti-migrants riots.
Despite swirling rumors on social media and within far-right groups, the majority of those arrested are of Spanish origin.
Since the assault on the retiree, far-right groups launched violence targeting migrants and Muslims, calling for a manhunt of “Maghrebis” or those coming from North Africa.
Many have condemned the anti-migrant and Islamophobic acts, but others have been fueling tensions and blaming Moroccans for the attacks.
Bishop Lorca Planes responded to the violence, urging all residents to avoid “any form of extremism” and to offer peace, love, and forgiveness.
According to reports, nearly one-third of Torre Pacheco’s population is of foreign origin, with many contributing to Spain’s socio-economic development, particularly in agriculture and other sectors.
Earlier this week, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the wave of racism and Islamophobic attacks against migrants and Muslims.
“Racism is incompatible with democracy,” he said, noting that Spain is a country of rights, not of hate.
The Moroccan consulate in Murcia also responded to the anti-migrant violence, particularly against Moroccans living in the region.
“We express our unconditional support to those affected and affirm our commitment to preserving their moral and physical integrity,” the consulate said, noting that it is constantly in contact with Spanish authorities to ensure all necessary security guarantees are provided to Moroccans.
