The incident occurred on Tuesday after members of an anti-squatter company allegedly pepper-sprayed a cameraman from ABC and a group of residents. Footage published by the outlet shows a man approaching the cameraman before the sound of pepper spray is heard.
Tensions escalated as the reporter attempted to confront a woman who, according to ABC, had allegedly hired the anti-squatter company. Police were called to the scene following reports that several residents had also been sprayed.
The three arrested individuals are believed to be linked to the anti-squatter company. The incident comes amid escalating tensions over the building's landlady seeking to evict long-term tenants to convert the property into a hotel.
The building, which houses a school, artisan workshops, cultural spaces, and residential units, is partially protected under Sevilla's planning laws, meaning it cannot be radically altered and its key architectural features must be preserved.
This incident highlights the rise of anti-squatter companies in Spain and growing concerns over property speculation forcing residents out of their neighbourhoods. These private firms assist property owners in recovering occupied buildings, though some have faced criticism for intimidation tactics.
The dispute also reflects mounting tensions over the transformation of historic city centres in cities like Sevilla, where investment in hotels and short-term holiday rentals is increasing pressure on residential housing.
