Heightened Alert for Weekend Protests
The Mossos d'Esquadra have reinforced security and self-protection protocols for police personnel in response to a jihadist alert warning of potential attacks during protests across Spain this weekend. The internal alert, issued on Friday 23rd October 2026, specifically covers the period from 23rd to 26th October and coincides with large demonstrations planned in Barcelona and other cities. According to an internal memo from the executive deputy chief commissioner of the Prefecture, it is "of vital importance that security and self-protection measures for police personnel are recalled in the briefings for the different work shifts." The directive underscores that Catalonia remains at antiterrorist alert level 4 out of 5, as defined by the Mossos d'Esquadra’s Specific Operational Plan (POE).
Operational Measures for Officer Safety
The memo instructs officers to review operational instructions, check protective and communication equipment, and assess the specific security conditions before beginning duty. During service, personnel are reminded to remain vigilant, apply established self-protection procedures, maintain coordination with fellow officers, and report any suspicious activity through official channels. At the end of each shift, officers must ensure that all relevant security information is properly communicated to subsequent teams. These measures are part of the ongoing protocols under the current antiterrorist alert framework, which includes increased access controls at major events and the deployment of armed police units.
We are at level 4 out of 5 on the anti-terrorism alert scale.
The alert follows intelligence reports of messages on Islamic State-affiliated platforms encouraging attacks on both police officers and demonstrators during public protests in Spain and other European countries. The Spanish Interior Ministry has confirmed monitoring of these online calls, which have prompted security agencies to heighten vigilance.
Public and Officer Vigilance Advised
While the focus is on protecting police personnel, the public is also reminded to remain alert. The Mossos d'Esquadra advise anyone with information related to potential terrorist activity to contact authorities via the dedicated form, by phone at +34 937 285 220, by email at mossos.terrorisme@gencat.cat, or through local police stations. In emergencies, the public should call 112. Further details on antiterrorist alert levels and public safety advice are available on the Mossos d'Esquadra website.
Sources: betevé (ACN), Generalitat de Catalunya.
