Barcelona protests turn violent as 100 arrested in looting and arson

Hooded demonstrators in Barcelona looted shops and set fires during an anti-establishment rally on October 24, leading to 100 arrests. The unrest occurred around the central Plaza de Catalunya, a popular tourist area. Catalonia's interior minister confirmed the arrests, with minors comprising about 25 percent of detainees. Over 30 fires were reported and 14 stores were vandalized or looted. The demonstration was promoted under the slogan "against the system" and the name "Institut Indignats." Barcelona's mayor condemned the violence and warned of legal consequences for those responsible, including guardians of minors. The incident follows recent housing affordability protests in Spain, though authorities did not directly link this rally to those separate demonstrations.