Hundreds Support Salma, the Woman Who Escaped Her Captor in Murcia
In an act of solidarity, around a hundred people gathered in Cardenal Belluga Square, Murcia, to support Salma, a 38-year-old Moroccan woman. On February 10, she escaped from a hellish situation where she endured nearly two years of torture, abuse, and sexual violence.
Support for Salma
The demonstrators held a black banner reading, “If they touch one of us, they touch all of us.” This rally, organized by the Feminist Movement of the Murcia Region, emphasized both feminist and anti-racist messages. It highlighted the institutional racism that allowed Salma to remain missing for 680 days without a significant public response. Olvido Garrido, the spokesperson, lamented, “There was no social alarm or media machinery activated.”
Medical Oversight Criticized
Garrido also criticized the medical personnel who attended to Salma last summer for an eye injury that left her without vision. She pointed out that they failed to follow a specific protocol to investigate potential violence. “Now that Salma has escaped her ordeal, we need to ensure she receives the necessary support,” she urged, stressing the importance of safe housing, job opportunities, and appropriate care for Salma.
Challenges for Migrant Women
Belinda Ntutumu, an activist with Afromurcia en Movimiento, highlighted that migrant women face extraordinary challenges when reporting violence, especially if they lack regular immigration status. “It is essential for these women to have a guarantee of safety when they report abuse,” Ntutumu said. They must not fear deportation while seeking help.
Salma’s Recovery
According to Juan, a friend who supported Salma during her escape, she is currently recovering and feels “supported and well-treated.” However, she remains deeply affected by her recent experiences. She limits her media exposure to avoid the distress caused by coverage, particularly the circulation of photos and videos featuring her aggressor, Alberto S.M.
The Impact of Surveillance
Salma disclosed to Juan that her captor often administered tranquilizers and other drugs, especially in the presence of visitors. He also frequently applied makeup to conceal her injuries. “She doesn’t have clear memories of many moments when there were other people present,” Juan noted.
Despite her trauma, Salma feels “happy and encouraged.” She is determined to pursue legal action against her captor and has retained a lawyer, moving on from her previous public defender. Family support has also been crucial in her recovery, especially from her brother residing in Barcelona.
Resources for Victims
The Spanish government provides a helpline, 016, for victims of gender-based violence. It operates 24/7, offering assistance in 53 languages. Calls are not registered on phone bills, but it’s important to delete the call from the device.
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp: 600 000 016
- Foundation ANAR for minors: 900 20 20 10
- Emergency contacts: 112, Police (091), Civil Guard (062)
- ALERTCOPS app for discreet alerts to police with geolocation
Salma’s case underscores the urgent need for systemic change, not only to support survivors but also to address the roots of violence against women, particularly those from marginalized communities.
