Spain arrests suspected founder of Blocus movement in Valencia

Spain's Civil Guard arrested the suspected founder and main promoter of the Blocus movement on Friday, October 30, in Picanya, Valencia. The man allegedly created and administered several Telegram groups used to coordinate looting and violent acts.

Investigators say the movement used social media calls for student protests to attract young people. Recruitment began with videos and posters on TikTok, some created with artificial intelligence, which included QR codes leading to WhatsApp and Telegram groups.

“He presented himself as such, disseminating a video in which a hooded man proclaimed himself leader.”

Participants were then invited to more restricted private channels where mobilization instructions were shared. Organizers encouraged spreading these links among classmates and school groups, helping the messages reach teenagers.

The instructions told participants to bring backpacks, school materials, and banners to appear as a student claim, while also wearing black clothing and masks to avoid identification by security forces.

For Saturday, October 31, organizers planned to gather participants at a general point and then communicate via private chat which establishments lacked police presence. The goal was to direct looting in real time toward the most accessible businesses.

Jewelry stores, luxury shops, and department stores were mentioned in the conversations. Some participants also proposed setting businesses and even the Barcelona City Hall on fire.

The investigated facts could constitute aggravated public disorder and criminal organization offenses, although the final legal classification will depend on the instruction.