Alfonso Rodríguez, on the "excessive" action of the Police: "This delegate does not decide on the charges"

PalmThe delegate of the Spanish government in the Balearic Islands, Alfonso Rodríguez, has distanced himself from the police action at the demonstration against tourist saturation, which he described as "disproportionate" in relation to the risk of a protest marked by "exemplary civic behavior". "Police charges depend on the "in situ operation, they are not decided by this delegate. The use of violence did not adjust to the risk," he stated this Monday, after the organizers of the protest and MÉS per Mallorca called for his resignation.

Rodríguez announced that he has commissioned urgent reports to "determine responsibilities" for the National Police's actions. "The images we have seen cause us concern. I have asked for explanations from the superior chief of the National Police [José Antonio Puebla]. Violent actions occurred by some members of the police contingent against people who posed no threat. I regret what happened and convey my consternation," he added.

From a political perspective, the delegate of the Spanish government deplored that the Police's action has shifted the informational focus of the protest. "We are focusing on something that should never have happened and not on the citizens' weariness with the effects of overpopulation. We should be there: demanding measures from the competent institutions. I share these objectives," he pointed out. "We politicians must take note of the diagnosis and move on to action," he added.

Regarding the calls for resignation, Rodríguez has assured that he will not leave his post. "That they ask for my resignation is within the power of these organizations and parties. Far from thinking about that, I continue to think about my work", he pointed out, in addition to remarking on several occasions that the security forces must "respect the right to demonstrate". On the other hand, the delegate has pointed out that there will be sanctions if responsibilities are derived from the police action.

The situation at Les Voltes

Regarding the altercations at Les Voltes, where the National Police closed access long before the agreed capacity of 2,000 people was reached, Rodríguez explained that access was closed twice, and the second closure occurred after "allowing entry up to the necessary limits." "We are all responsible for what happened at a demonstration that was peaceful and demanding. It was suggested to the organization that Les Voltes was not a suitable venue and they were urged to go to the Parc de la Mar. Their collaboration was requested," he explained.

Rodríguez reiterated throughout the press conference that he did not direct the police operation and assured that he gave instructions "throughout the week" relating to the Police's "containment and calm." "We have to analyze well what happened, but my impression is that the charges were disproportionate. We are not in situ to make decisions, we give general indications and pursue action to maintain security, tranquility, and the right to demonstrate", he insisted, and clarified that, according to the Police Chief, "rubber projectiles were not fired".