A shocking incident in Barcelona has drawn international attention after a 31-year-old Ecuadorian man was arrested for slapping a one-year-old baby in front of her family.
The disturbing event, captured on video, took place at Montjuïc, a popular tourist area near famous landmarks such as La Sagrada Familia.
The Incident
Video footage shows the man screaming at the tourist family, including the baby, who stood just inches away. Initially, the man feigned a strike, stopping just short of the child’s face. However, he soon took a second, more aggressive swing, hitting the child on the left cheek.
The child’s father quickly picked her up and, along with the mother, left the scene. Local authorities reported that the girl suffered minor injuries, which fortunately did not require hospitalization.
Other Victims of the Attack
It has since been revealed that the Ecuadorian national allegedly assaulted two other individuals during the same weekend. One of the victims, a 60-year-old man, suffered cuts to his face and bruising. The suspect was later arrested on Sunday after police identified him through video evidence and eyewitness testimonies.
Tourist Safety Concerns
The incident has raised alarm over tourist safety in Barcelona, a city that sees millions of visitors each year. The attack occurred on Montjuïc Hill, an area known for its scenic views and cultural attractions. While a popular spot, this act of violence has heightened concerns about rising aggression toward visitors.
Anti-Tourism Sentiment
The incident coincides with growing anti-tourism sentiment in Barcelona. The city has experienced increasing resistance from locals, who argue that over-tourism has driven up housing costs and negatively impacted local businesses. In July, thousands of protestors marched through the city carrying signs such as “Tourists go home” and “Barcelona is not for sale.”
Mayor Jaume Collboni recently announced a plan to phase out short-term rentals by 2028 in response to the city’s escalating housing crisis. However, many locals feel that these efforts fall short of addressing the full scope of the issue.
Court Appearance
The Ecuadorian man is set to appear in court on Tuesday, where he will face charges related to the assault on the child and two other individuals. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the extent of the attacks.
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