Riots broke out in downtown Barcelona, Spain, after anti-establishment protesters who had gathered via social media looted shops, set fires to trash bins and public property, and damaged at least 14 stores. Over 100 people were arrested, about one in four being youths, while Catalonia regional authorities and city officials confirmed they would prosecute those responsible.
Spanish police regained control in Barcelona on the evening of 24 October following a gathering of young anti-system and social institution protesters that turned violent. Some demonstrators looted stores, set fire to trash bins and public property, and hurled stones and bottles at police officers.
Núria Parlón, Catalonia's Minister of the Interior, reported approximately 100 arrests, with around 25% being minors. Additionally, over 30 fires were ignited, and 14 stores in the popular city center—frequented by tourists and weekend shoppers—were damaged or looted.
Reports indicated about 500 protesters, mostly young people dressed in black or dark clothing and wearing hoods, gathered at Catalonia Square after calls circulated on social media under the name "Institut Indignats," meaning "Discontented High School Students." This was inspired by France’s "Lycées Indignés" student protest movement active in recent weeks.
The demonstration expressed dissatisfaction with the social system, focusing on issues common to protests across Europe such as rising housing costs, living expenses, education problems, and the perception that governments have failed to solve everyday challenges. However, officials noted the protest was not officially notified to authorities as required.
Tensions escalated around 18:30 local time when some protesters threw objects at police lines before authorities moved to control the situation. Some groups set trash bins on fire, overturned parked motorcycles, and used trash bins and motorcycles to block Carrer Begara street near Catalonia Square, then set these barricades ablaze.
Additionally, some protesters smashed storefront windows and took merchandise, while others threw stones and bottles at police officers. Videos shared on social media showed people trapped inside some shops, including the El Corte Inglés department store, after shutters were pulled down to prevent looting.
Catalonia’s Mossos d'Esquadra police deployed over 200 officers around the square, while Barcelona’s municipal police, the Guàrdia Urbana, blocked certain streets and access points in the city center. Authorities also closed some subway and commuter train stations for several hours, redirecting passengers to alternative stations.
After police regained control, protesters dispersed in groups. However, reports continued of clashes on side streets and some injuries. Additional suspects were detained, and many shops closed their doors and covered storefronts to protect against damage.
Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni condemned the property destruction and vowed no impunity for the offenders. He stated both adults and minors involved will face legal consequences, with parents or legal guardians of youths possibly held accountable as well.
Salvador Illa, President of the Catalan government, strongly condemned the violence via the X platform, stating that violence has no place in Catalonia and that assault, intimidation, or property damage are not democratic rights. He emphasized there is no justification for violence.
Illa also expressed appreciation and support for police efforts, coordinating with the Barcelona mayor and Catalonia’s Interior Minister to address the situation.
The incident occurred in central Barcelona near a site where housing rights protests had been ongoing for weeks, amid large crowds of locals and tourists. Barcelona, one of Europe’s major cities, had previously avoided the wave of violent protests seen recently in France and Italy.