A pitched battle in Lleida ends with three wounded by knife, two of them minors, and a detainee

A violent street fight in Lleida ended with three injuries caused by knives, two of whom were minors, and one person detained, according to local authorities. The incident took place late Tuesday night in the Balafia neighborhood, a northern district of the city. A group of around thirty individuals, some wearing balaclavas, armed with knives and bats, arrived at a park located near the Rosa Parks street and Sant Ruf avenue after 10 p.m. It was there that the confrontation began with another gang present in the area. According to police sources, the conflict involved two rival groups, one primarily composed of Maghrebis and the other of Pakistanis, both known in the locality. The dispute escalated into a large-scale brawl, resulting in three people being injured by knives. Two of the victims were minors, though their injuries were not life-threatening. One individual was arrested by the municipal guard following the altercation. Residents and witnesses had previously alerted the authorities about the situation, prompting the local police to take control of the operation. The response included support from units of the Autonomous Police (ARRO) of the Mossos d'Esquadra. The autonomous police remain in the area to ensure security in the vicinity for the coming hours. Xavier Palau, leader of the People's Party (PP) in Lleida, denounced the situation, stating, “On Saturday we saw how the streets of Lleida turned into the Bronx. Lleida cannot be a city without law.” He added, “The situation is unsustainable. It is out of control, chaos reigns, and the government of Larrosa has no direction.” Palau demanded an urgent and realistic “crackdown plan” from the socialist mayor, Félix Larrossa. He criticized the current administration for failing to address a problem directly affecting citizens' quality of life and peace. “Lleida needs order, security, and a government with direction,” he concluded. “And today, none of these exist.” The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the neighborhood, which have been reported in recent months. Local officials have acknowledged the need for increased policing and community engagement to prevent such conflicts. The police have confirmed that they are reviewing the case and will determine whether further legal action is necessary against those involved. Authorities are also considering measures to improve public safety in areas prone to violence, including greater surveillance and community outreach programs. While the immediate focus remains on the aftermath of the fight, officials emphasize the importance of long-term strategies to reduce crime and restore stability in the region. The presence of the Mossos d'Esquadra underscores the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to maintaining order in the face of rising unrest.