Police raided a three floor building in San Telmo in the early hours of Wednesday morning, where almost 100 families live. Authorities offered residents 7,000 pesos to leave the house, usurped over 20 years ago. If they do not move out by choice, they will be forced out without compensation.
Neighbours had complained about growing violence in the area, and blamed the residents of the property on Paseo Colón. Police stormed the building, and found 800 doses of paco, a lethal, addictive drug. Four people were arrested on suspicion of drug dealing, and two women were taken to hospital suffering from tuberculosis.
Only eight families accepted the compensation, and the majority refused to leave. Secretary of Justice, Daniel Presti alleged that many of the families were staying in the building against their will.
“Many families want to leave and take the compensation, but those that don’t want to leave won’t let them.”
A mother of three who has lived in the building for nine years remained defiant.
“I work and the kids go to college. We all pay for gas and electricity. I know that it’s not beautiful, but what will I do with 7,000 pesos? You have to pay 1,300 pesos rent and then two months deposit.
It was also argued that those claiming compensation are exploiting the situation.
“Some people take the money and find another place to squat. It’s a vicious circle.”