Police secure house in Ostrava ahead of disputed demolition

Police early on Monday secured a house in Ostrava’s former miners’ colony Bedřiška scheduled for demolition. For days, activists had occupied its roof despite freezing weather to block the work, a protest that drew national attention. Demolition of the last house in the current phase has now begun. Opponents argue the colony is a rare example of successful community rebuilding and appealed for help to President Petr Pavel and the human rights commissioner. Local officials insist the structures are beyond their lifespan and too costly to repair, while residents say the Finnish-style houses could still be saved.