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Sánchez calls Barcelona riots 'pure vandalism' and vows no tolerance
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the riots in Barcelona over the weekend, which led to around 130 arrests and the looting of about 30 stores, as "pure vandalism incited online."
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the riots in Barcelona over the weekend as "pure vandalism," vowing zero tolerance for those responsible for the violence.
In a statement, Sánchez said: "What we saw in Barcelona over the weekend was not a democratic act, but pure vandalism incited online. An investigation is under way, and 128 detainees will appear before the courts. This government's position is clear: zero tolerance for violence and full support for security forces and shopkeepers."
From student protest to clashes
The events began on Saturday, when students gathered at Plaça de Catalunya in central Barcelona in response to a call circulated online. The gathering later turned into clashes with Catalonia's Mossos d'Esquadra police, and around 30 stores near the square were looted.
After Sánchez's remarks, Catalan authorities raised the number of detainees to 130, including 76 minors. Fifteen police officers were injured, while damage to public property was estimated at around 36,000 euros.
Calls spread through TikTok
Catalan Interior Minister Nuria Parlon said the call was initially spread on platforms such as TikTok by organizers using fake identities. They later directed participants to group messaging channels containing instructions for taking part. She added that authorities had asked WhatsApp and Telegram to shut down groups inciting violence and would not tolerate a new call for a demonstration on Saturday, October 31.
Barcelona City Council allocated a fund of 500,000 euros to help affected stores. Government spokesperson Elma Saiz distinguished between the riots and legitimate protests concerning education and housing, stressing that the parents of detained minors would bear responsibility.
Several ministers accused the far right of being behind the events, while opposition People's Party leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo blamed the government for the social tensions, ahead of Spain's general election scheduled for November 29.
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