Hundreds rally in Torremolinos for justice following Haitam Mejri death

On Sunday, June, 7, hundreds of local residents marched for the memory of Haitam, and that justice truly be done to get to the bottom of why he died.

Haitam Mejri lost his life on December 7, 2025, during a police intervention in a Torremolinos locutorio. Officers responded to reports of an agitated man inside the phone shop. Video recordings captured multiple Taser discharges, pepper spray use, physical blows, and prolonged restraint that lasted around 10 minutes before he collapsed and died at the scene.

Details surrounding Haitam Mejri’s final moments

Witness accounts and footage indicate officers applied pressure to his neck and torso while deploying Tasers up to 11 times. An official autopsy attributed the death to an adverse reaction from drugs combined with agitated delirium and a pre-existing heart condition. But few in Torremolinos are convinced by that explanation. Family-commissioned reports and human rights observers point instead to excessive force and possible positional asphyxia as key contributing factors.

Local residents voice deep frustration

People in Torremolinos feel outraged because many view the incident as another example of disproportionate police response, especially towards individuals from migrant backgrounds. Community members worry about inadequate accountability and fear similar events could affect any resident, no matter where they are from. This anger has built steadily since the death, powering repeated calls for transparency in how authorities handle vulnerable people in distress.

Investigations into the case remain unresolved

Spanish courts in Malaga continue to examine the events, yet critics argue the probe has lacked full interviews with involved officers and independent scrutiny. Platforms such as Justicia para Haitam keep pressure on officials to deliver a thorough review that addresses potential human rights violations.

Steps that could prevent similar tragedies

Better de-escalation training for officers, stricter limits on Taser deployment, and improved protocols for restraint techniques would reduce risks. Independent oversight bodies and mandatory body camera reviews in every intervention could also promote accountability and public trust.

Demonstrators gathered despite the Pride festivities

Hundreds turned out for the memory of Haitam at Calle Hoyo 8 on June 7, despite large crowds celebrating Pride events across Torremolinos. Organised by the Plataforma Justicia para Haitam, the gathering at 7pm demanded truth and an end to impunity with the message that today it was Haitam but tomorrow it could be anyone. Attendees stood in solidarity with his family and hoped this kind of senseless death never repeats in their town.