Platform Removes 'Blocus-BCN-2' After First Ban Evaded
Telegram has shut down a second group, Blocus-BCN-2, which was created hours after the original group, Blocus-BCN, was suspended for inciting violence. The new group had gathered over 2,400 users before dropping to 2,200, according to Tot Barcelona. Both groups violated Telegram's terms of use by promoting coordinated actions in Barcelona on Saturday 31st October. The group's messages, all in Spanish, included calls to "raze everything" and instructions for participants to dress in black and wear Halloween masks. One message read: "On the 31st, we will meet at a general point," with plans to target shops once informants reported locations "without blues", a reference to the absence of Mossos d'Esquadra officers.
Government Demands Platform Cooperation
Núria Parlon, Catalonia's Minister of the Interior, formally requested on Monday that WhatsApp and Telegram close mass messaging groups inciting violence. She emphasized "zero tolerance" for further unrest, stating that police forces would respond with full force to any repeat of Saturday’s events. Parlon highlighted that organisers had used TikTok to distribute QR codes redirecting users to encrypted Telegram and WhatsApp groups. This coordination method allowed rapid dissemination of logistical instructions, including attire and timing, under concealed identities.
We must be united against this government that robs us.
Messages in the group also contained political slogans and insults directed at Spain’s government, including the phrase "Perro Sánchez, cabrón" and pledges to "give a good blow to this government that has been screwing us for a long time."
TikTok Strengthens Moderation Measures
Following the disturbances, TikTok has activated a specialized working group to monitor content. The platform is now conducting proactive checks using image and audio recognition technology to detect and remove rule-breaking content. It has also suspended live broadcasts, removed videos, and blocked searches promoting violence. When users search for terms like 'manifestaciónbarcelona', TikTok now displays a warning that the situation is developing rapidly and may include unverified or inaccurate information. The platform has also disabled autocomplete and limited search recommendations related to protests. TikTok has condemned the violence in Barcelona and reiterated its policy against content that incites criminal activity.
Police Investigate Organisers and Patterns
The Mossos d'Esquadra are investigating the origins of the Blocus movement and are working with Telegram and WhatsApp to identify administrators and key participants. Despite rapid group recreation, law enforcement agencies have not confirmed a central command structure or any foreign involvement. In Madrid, a separate Halloween-related call to action was cancelled, with organisers citing fears of police surveillance. This contrasts with the persistent momentum seen in Barcelona’s online networks. Authorities remain on high alert for Friday night, when Halloween festivities could provide cover for further disturbances. Residents and business owners in central Barcelona are advised to remain vigilant and avoid large, unauthorised gatherings.
Sources: Tot Barcelona, marca.com, EFE.
