Spain’s National Police have arrested the director and two teachers at a nursery in the southern province of Jaén (Andalusia) accused of mistreating at least 15 young children, authorities have said.
The investigation was launched by officers from the Judicial Police, including the Family and Women’s Unit (UFAM), after complaints were filed by several trainee students working at the pre-school.
According to Spanish media citing police sources, the interns reported a pattern of abusive behaviour during their placements, which they initially raised with their supervisors before formal complaints were made.
Allegations focus particularly on mealtimes, where staff are accused of forcing children to eat against their will. In some cases, this reportedly caused the children to vomit, after which they were allegedly made to continue eating.
Investigators also say that, in certain situations, children who cried or refused food were locked in a dark bathroom as a form of punishment.
Following a complaint submitted by one of the trainees’ tutors, police were able to identify at least 15 minors who may have been subjected to these practices. Two teachers were subsequently arrested on suspicion of repeated abuse and degrading treatment of minors.
The nursery’s director was later detained on separate charges, including coercion and offences against the administration of justice.
According to investigators, once the director became aware of the allegations, they allegedly held individual meetings with parents, informing them they might be called to testify by police and insisting that the accusations were false and that the children were unharmed – actions believed to have been aimed at influencing their statements.
Police also allege the director pressured the trainee students to withdraw their complaints, warning them of possible legal consequences and negative impacts on their future careers.
The investigation remains ongoing as officers continue working to fully clarify the circumstances surrounding the case.
Enjoying the news from Spain in English? Add us as a preferred news source in Google.
Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter from Spain in English.
Click here to get your business activity or services listed on our DIRECTORY.