The patron saint festivals in Etxebarri have been marred by two unpleasant incidents. Last week, a young woman reported a sexual assault, and this past Saturday, a large brawl resulted in injuries to two Local Police officers and one Ertzaintza officer. The Council has issued a statement expressing its "strongest condemnation of the serious altercations" and conveying "support and recognition to the injured officers".
The statement emphasizes that it is "unacceptable for individuals working to ensure safe festivities to suffer aggression." In this regard, they wish to make it clear that the events "do not stem from any political motivation nor do they represent the sentiment of our town".
Municipal officials highlight that the altercations "are incompatible with the model of festivities we advocate," within which the "vast majority" of Etxebarri residents "have participated in the celebrations respectfully and responsibly".
They also took the opportunity to address the reported sexual assault, "reiterating our firmest condemnation" and conveying "support, solidarity, and closeness" to the victim and their loved ones.
Finally, the Council has offered a "positive" overall assessment of the ten-day festivities, which featured over 100 activities and saw up to 128 groups from Etxebarri participate "exemplarily, demonstrating that enjoyment is possible through respect and coexistence".
However, aware of the need to "continue defending festivities free from any form of violence," the governing team has called on citizens to attend a protest against the aggressions scheduled for tomorrow at 7:00 PM in Zintururi square.
