Large-scale rioting and looting in Barcelona leads to over 128 arrests

On the night of Saturday, October 24, 2026, widespread riots occurred in the center of Barcelona, Spain, following an unannounced anti-establishment rally organized via social media. Hundreds of protesters, many dressed in black with concealed faces, damaged storefronts, destroyed street furniture, and looted at least 14 businesses, particularly in the area around Plaza de Catalunya.

Authorities deployed over 220 officers to control the violence, resulting in at least 128 arrests. Among those detained, 73 were minors, and only two individuals had prior criminal records. The clashes also left 15 officers injured—14 from the Catalan police force, Mossos d'Esquadra, and one from the local municipal police. Silvia Catà, head of the Mossos d'Esquadra, condemned the events as unprovoked violence. This incident occurs amid a broader European trend of public unrest regarding housing and living costs.

Police are currently preparing detailed reports on the incidents to submit to the Juvenile Prosecutor's Office and the adult court system for legal proceedings. The authorities continue to investigate the coordination of the demonstration and the extent of the damages caused during the night.