On Sunday, April 13, the Sopela 4ekin1 platform announced that the case against young people arrested in 2021 during mobilizations protesting the impact of gambling halls on youth health and community coexistence has been closed. Both parties reached an agreement, leading to the suspension of the trial.
According to platform members, this process has been a “nightmare” that lasted five years. Although the case was archived twice, the prosecutor decided to proceed. Consequently, the four citizens faced the risk of a 32-year prison sentence and a fine of 112,400 euros, in the name of political activism.
The movement stated that a “police setup” was organized and that they were prosecuted in a “fraudulent” manner.
During the gathering, platform members expressed that they have “plenty of reasons to be happy and celebrate,” and that they have proven that “the struggle can change everything.” They believe that the closure of the case was achieved thanks to “broad and strong” solidarity, and they thanked the thousands of people who supported them along the way.
A portion of the economic aid received will be directed to groups facing similar situations, such as the Berango Solidarity Committee and the members of Aroztegi. With this, the platform has concluded its activities.
