Spanish court suspends far-right group over alleged hate crimes

What the report says

A Spanish court has suspended the activities of the far-right group Nucleo Nacional while investigators examine alleged hate crimes and illegal association, according to Al Jazeera reporting from Spain. The ruling, issued in the northern city of Gijon, ordered the group’s office closed and its social media presence and bank accounts blocked.

The action follows last week’s arrests of 14 members on suspicion of inciting hatred against vulnerable groups and people with opposing political views. Police also searched the organization’s headquarters in Madrid and other locations, where they said they found more than 20 firearms, including some that were unlicensed, along with ammunition and other weapons. Court restrictions already in place for key members include limits on travel and a requirement to report regularly to authorities.

Nucleo Nacional describes itself as a political movement and, before the court order, said on its website that it aimed to promote a “national awakening.” Spanish authorities have been scrutinizing the group for anti-immigration rhetoric, particularly after a large influx of migrants into Ceuta, Spain’s North African enclave, earlier this year. The case comes amid a politically tense period in Spain, ahead of the November 29 general election and shortly after a nationwide general strike. The investigation highlights how Spanish authorities are responding to alleged extremist activity and online hate speech.