Protesters set fires, clash with police during Spain’s general strike: Watch
Clashes broke out between masked protesters and police in Barcelona on Wednesday as tens of thousands of people took part in Spain’s first general strike in 14 years, called by the country’s major trade unions over the housing affordability crisis and rising cost of living. Around 120,000 people joined demonstrations in Madrid and more than 50,000 gathered in Barcelona, where some protesters set fire to rubbish bins, smashed shop windows and clashed with police. Local media reported that protesters fired fireworks at police and looted shops, including a Lego store.
Officers fired tear gas to disperse the crowds, while transport and other public services across the country faced significant disruption. The disturbances in Barcelona continued into the evening, with a heavy police presence in the city centre. Some clashes took place along Passeig de Gràcia, near the iconic Plaça de Catalunya. Some were also seen attempting to enter an Apple Store.