The Incident and the Victim’s Condition
According to reports from June 1, 2026, a police brutality incident occurred during a teachers’ protest in Valencia, Spain, which was held in support of collective bargaining in the education sector. A 68-year-old retired teacher participating in the event was suddenly pushed from behind by a riot police officer, causing her to fall face-first onto the pavement.
A union source revealed that the victim was treated at a medical center afterward and diagnosed with a fractured nasal septum. She also sustained injuries to her chin, which required stitches. The teacher has since filed a formal complaint with the authorities. A video of the incident, filmed by her colleagues, quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread public attention and anger.
Official Investigation Launched
Following the public outcry, Spain’s National Police have confirmed the launch of an internal disciplinary investigation to determine if the officer’s conduct was improper. Meanwhile, Pilar Bernabé, the central government’s delegate in Valencia, stated publicly on her social media account that “the images we have just seen are unacceptable.” She pledged a thorough investigation to clarify responsibilities, emphasizing that “the right to demonstrate safely prevails over any other circumstance.”
Police Union’s Firm Response
However, the Confederación Española de Policía (CEP), a police union representing some officers, expressed a different view on the matter. The organization publicly defended the officer involved, stating that the police action was intended to “prevent protesters from blocking the street” and offered its full “support to our colleague.”
The CEP also directly addressed Government Delegate Pilar Bernabé, questioning her authority to investigate: “You are not competent to investigate anything; in any case, that responsibility falls to a judge.” The union argued that protesters who participate in blocking roads should assume the risk of being removed.
Reactions from Society
The incident has triggered a chain reaction in Spanish politics and society. Several left-wing political parties, including Podemos, have demanded an explanation from the Spanish central government and the Ministry of the Interior, with some even calling for the minister’s resignation.
The academic community has also expressed concern. The University of Valencia (UV) and the Jaume I University (UJI) of Castellón have issued statements supporting the injured teacher and jointly called on the relevant parties to resolve the ongoing teachers’ strike through negotiations.
