The association Barcelona Oberta values the measures that secured the city centre on Saturday to prevent the looting called by Blocus. Some chains closed their stores early.
Hundreds of agents from the Mossos d'Esquadra and Guardia Urbana deployed a strong security presence in the centre of Barcelona and at public transport access points on Saturday afternoon. The aim was to prevent at least three gatherings and looting planned for that day by the digital group Blocus, following the disturbances of October 24.
The merchants' association Barcelona Oberta praised the police action on Sunday in a statement, calling it “exemplary.” The entity believes that the operation guaranteed what is essential:
“The safety of commerce, customers, and workers”
During the morning, the commercial axes of Portal del Ángel, vía Laietana, calle de Pelai, paseo de Gràcia, and avenida Diagonal saw visitor numbers similar to other Saturdays. Many establishments had protected their shop windows with wood and iron elements.
By early afternoon, some establishments, particularly large chains, closed early. They did so following the guidance of their organisations and in coordination with stores in other cities. According to Barcelona Oberta, the decision was mainly due to the expectation of fewer customers.
The president of the organisation, Gabriel Jené, explained that the association understands the caution of some chains and franchises that wanted to protect their premises and close early. The entity appreciates the support and coordination from the Barcelona City Council.
“It extends its gratitude to the Mossos and the Guardia Urbana, congratulating them on an operation that it considers exemplary and that helped to preserve calm in the main commercial axes of the city”
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