Halloween Blocus arrests: Spain warns families

Police arrest numerous young people over calls to vandalise and loot shops during the Halloween weekend, prompting Spain’s government to urge families to take responsibility. Speaking in Madrid, Spain, on 3 November, government spokeswoman Elma Saiz says the ‘Blocus’ calls circulated on social media and involve minors. The warning follows serious unrest in Barcelona, Catalonia, on 24 October, when shops were looted.

Saiz says the movement draws on violent protests in France. She praises efforts by the National Police, Civil Guard and regional and local forces, including the Mossos d’Esquadra, to prevent further vandalism.

She also says the courts have an important role in getting the message through to families. Concerned about violence involving minors, the government has proposed measures to protect their digital wellbeing and tackle hate speech on social media, she says.

Topics: Police

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com