Mossos d’Esquadra have arrested a 17-year-old minor in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia for his alleged role in coordinating the disturbances that occurred in Barcelona last Saturday.
Involvement in Telegram Coordination
According to the police investigation, the teenager allegedly served as a central figure in a private Telegram channel used to orchestrate the acts of vandalism. Authorities claim the minor disseminated access links to the group and actively participated in discussions, providing specific instructions to participants. These directions reportedly included advice on what materials to bring to the protests, tactics for evading police detection, and methods for self-protection during the confrontations.
Incitement and Targeting of Property
Beyond logistics, the Mossos d’Esquadra investigation indicates that the suspect actively incited others to engage in violent actions. Investigators allege the minor specifically proposed potential targets for looting throughout the city. This arrest follows previous detentions made on the scene during the disturbances, but it is the first to target an individual accused of managing the group’s internal communications and strategic planning.
Related Enforcement in Lleida
The arrest in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia follows a separate police operation in the Lleida region this past Thursday. In that instance, officers detained another minor accused of creating online groups to incite a new mobilization scheduled for this Saturday in the capital of the Segrià region. While the suspect in the Barcelona case is accused of coordinating actions that have already occurred, the individual in Lleida was arrested for inciting a protest that had not yet taken place.
Investigation Status
The Mossos d’Esquadra continue to analyze digital evidence recovered from the messaging platforms used to organize these events. While these two arrests represent significant developments in the ongoing response to the disturbances, police indicate that investigations remain open to identify other potential organizers or participants who played active roles in the incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary charge against the 17-year-old?
The minor is accused of organizing and coordinating acts of vandalism by managing a Telegram channel, which included inciting violence and identifying targets for looting.
How does this arrest differ from those made on Saturday?
While previous arrests involved individuals caught in the act during the disturbances, this is the first arrest of an alleged organizer responsible for planning and coordinating the activities behind the scenes.
Are there other related investigations ongoing?
Yes, the Catalan police are also investigating a separate case in Lleida involving a minor who was arrested for attempting to organize a new mobilization through similar online channels.
