Second suspect held over Halloween looting plot

Police in Valencia have arrested a second young suspect in the alleged Halloween looting plot, extending an investigation into calls on social media and messaging apps to cause disorder and target shops.

The 18-year-old was detained in Alfafar on Friday morning and is suspected of being linked to the online group behind the so-called Blocus Vlc campaign, according to police sources reported in Spanish media. He is expected to be brought before a judge after questioning.

The arrest comes two days after officers held a 17-year-old boy in connection with the same inquiry. CNS reported that earlier detention on Thursday after police said the teenager had helped organise calls for looting and unrest on Halloween night.

Open investigation

According to the reports, the latest suspect was already known to investigators as part of the same messaging network, which police say was used to spread calls for people to gather in the city on Saturday.

Spanish outlets also reported that the probe remains active and that more detentions have not been ruled out. Police have not disclosed any further details of the suspect’s alleged role beyond his reported links to the group.

The case has caused concern among shopkeepers in central Valencia, where some businesses have been preparing for possible unrest during the Halloween weekend. Police sources have said the investigation is continuing.