Spain: Anti-terrorist raids in Barcelona January 15

Event

Catalan police are currently carrying out anti-terrorist raids as of the morning of Tuesday, January 15, in the Barcelona region. The police have raided at least six places so far, in downtown Barcelona as well as in the nearby town of Igualda, where one person was reportedly arrested. Further details are likely to emerge as the operations are ongoing.

A heightened security presence, including possible identity checkpoints, and associated transportation disruptions are anticipated in Barcelona in the coming hours.

Context

The Spanish terrorist threat level is currently assessed as high. In August 2017, a van plowed through crowds on the Las Ramblas pedestrian street of Barcelona. Around eight hours later, a car drove into pedestrians in the coastal resort town of Cambrils. Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Advice

Individuals in Spain are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.