A total of 210 vulnerable individuals, consisting of roughly 90 families, including children, expecting mothers, the elderly, the unwell, Ukrainian refugees, and people of diverse nationalities, were left homeless yesterday morning following the long-anticipated eviction of the Chasna 8 building in Costa del Silencio (Arona). This eviction was mandated by the Court of First Instance No. 3 due to “structural issues in the building, posing a risk of collapse,” as confirmed by Ruth Martín, the Councilor for Social Services of the Aronero City Council, to DIARIO DE AVISOS days earlier.
Starting before eight in the morning yesterday, the streets leading to one of Tenerife’s most picturesque and tranquil spots were lined with law enforcement vehicles arriving earlier than the scheduled time of nine thirty. They officially informed the residents of the property that they must vacate, despite efforts by Mayor Fátima Lemes. She stated, “Last Monday, the affected individuals requested time to retrieve their belongings. We appealed to the Court for a delay, which unfortunately was not granted.”
Groups of people were visible outside the building alongside their mattresses, furniture, suitcases, and even some cylinders. Among them were individuals in wheelchairs, some pushing baby strollers. Tensions ran high, with desperate cries and shouts directed at the Civil Guard agents who inspected the deserted building. Other families waited patiently with their belongings, sitting on chairs under umbrellas to shield themselves from the morning sun, such as Daniela, a 22-year-old with her husband, 40-day-old baby, and dog. They stated, “No help has been offered to us. We hoped this situation would be resolved, but we have been informed that there are no alternatives. We have nowhere to go.”
Instances like that of Joaquín from Adeje, his wife, and young daughter, highlight the near impossibility of purchasing or renting a home in southern Tenerife even with employment. Joaquín commented, “They do not provide us with the opportunity to secure housing.” Fortunately, this family received assistance from relatives and will not be left on the streets. However, many affected individuals will have spent their first night outdoors by now.
FRAN PALLERO
FRAN PALLERO
FRAN PALLERO
FRAN PALLERO
FRAN PALLERO
DORIS CARBALLO
