Spain: A Spanish court has ordered the suspension of the activities of far-right group Nucleo Nacional as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged hate crimes and illegal association.
The ruling, announced by a court in the northern city of Gijon, includes closing the group’s office and blocking its social media content and bank accounts. The decision follows the arrest of 14 members last week on suspicion of inciting hatred against vulnerable communities and individuals with opposing political ideologies.
The court action comes ahead of Spain’s general election scheduled for November 29 and a day after the country witnessed its first nationwide general strike in 14 years.
Group denounces court action
Responding to the suspension, an unidentified representative of Nucleo Nacional appeared in a video posted on X, accusing authorities of political persecution and repression. Wearing a black shirt with the group’s logo, the representative claimed the movement was being unfairly targeted
Nucleo Nacional describes itself as a political movement and previously promoted what it called a ‘national awakening’ through its website, which has now been blocked following the court order. Spanish authorities have been monitoring the organisation over its anti-immigration rhetoric, particularly following the arrival of thousands of migrants in July in Ceuta, Spain’s North African enclave.
Police seize firearms and ammunition
As part of the investigation, police conducted searches at the group’s headquarters in Madrid and several other locations. Authorities reported seizing more than 20 firearms, including some without the required licences, as well as substantial quantities of ammunition and other prohibited weapons.
The court also confirmed that key members of the organisation had been placed under precautionary judicial measures. These include restrictions on leaving Spain and an obligation to report to a court every week.
The latest action follows another investigation involving far-right activists in Madrid. The Spanish government highlighted some far-right activists, including individuals performing Nazi salutes, had attempted to approach protesters camping in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol square. The developments have brought renewed attention to far-right activities and political tensions in Spain.
MOST READ | Scott Colom makes history with Mississippi senate victory
