Calm Returns to El Vellon Amid Tensions Over Migrant Reception Center

In early August, the small Spanish village of El Vellon, located 50 kilometers north of Madrid, appeared to regain its calm after a tumultuous period surrounding the local foreign minors' reception center. The unrest peaked on June 9 when residents attempted to confront the young migrants, accusing them of various offenses, including an alleged assault and theft. The situation has highlighted the growing political tensions in Spain regarding the reception of unaccompanied foreign minors, known locally as "menas." The reception center, operated by the Community of Madrid, houses 11 young migrants, who, according to a social worker, are not seeking trouble. The village's socialist mayor, Catalina Llorente, defended the minors, asserting that a significant majority of the crimes attributed to them were not committed by them. In contrast, the conservative mayor of the neighboring town of Pedrezuela, Rodrigo García, expressed concerns about the perceived threat to community safety posed by the migrants. The village's residents are sharply divided on the issue. Supporters of the minors, like local tax adviser Gustavo Diaz, argue that they are victims of a smear campaign, while others, including Laura, a local resident, have voiced fears about the migrants' behavior, claiming they are aggressive and fail to integrate. Raul, a father in the village, echoed these sentiments, stating that the presence of the minors has created a sense of insecurity that affects his family's ability to enjoy their community.