A new criminal gang, 'Los 300', has emerged in Barcelona. It actively engages in drug trafficking and violent assaults across districts including Nou Barris, Sant Andreu, and Sant Martí. The gang often exploits minors for its operations. This group primarily comprises young individuals. It has quickly established a presence, challenging rival factions. The gang seeks to dominate the city's illicit drug trade.
'Los 300' Operations and Leadership
Metrópoli reported that 'Los 300' members are mostly young men and some very young women. This includes minors. These individuals hold Spanish, Ecuadorian, Honduran, Peruvian, or Colombian nationalities. The gang focuses on trafficking drugs like tusi and marihuana. Additionally, they carry out violent assaults against rival gang members. These include those from the L5 Metro line. They also commit robberies. They arm themselves with knives and machetes during these activities. Police sources alerted Metrópoli several months ago about the gang's formation. Its members frequently engaged in public clashes with rival groups. This occurred particularly in La Sagrera and Sant Andreu.
The gang's leader, known by the alias 'Blessing', is a 25-year-old of Ecuadorian and Spanish origin. Sources close to the gang told Metrópoli that 'Blessing' directs the group's activities. Unlike many criminals who seek anonymity, 'Los 300' members, and 'Blessing' himself, openly display their lifestyle on social media. 'Blessing' reportedly offers significant sums, up to €500, for individuals to travel to the Netherlands for drug trafficking. His acquaintances explained, "He posts Instagram stories saying he is looking for people to be in the Netherlands a couple of days. In return, he offers them hundreds of euros. It's all for dealing tusi and marihuana."
Exploitation of Minors and Recruitment
'Blessing' strategically uses minors for these dangerous errands, according to sources close to the gang. These children are under 18. They often lack driving licences. However, they see an opportunity for quick and easy money. Meanwhile, 'Blessing' maintains a fixed income. He works as a nightclub bouncer. He avoids using his real name. However, he stands out with his elegant attire, sometimes appearing in a suit. This contrasts with his followers. They typically wear black and white clothing. 'Blessing' also showcases a lavish lifestyle. This includes high-end trips to European countries like Italy with his Spanish girlfriend.
The gang's core residence is largely in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat. This city in the Barcelona metropolitan area has over 260,000 residents. However, their operational reach extends significantly into Barcelona's Nou Barris, Sant Andreu, and Sant Martí districts. These areas are home to hundreds of thousands of residents and tourists. The gang's presence therefore poses a significant concern for public safety and order.
Alliances and Growing Influence
'Blessing' has actively pursued alliances to expand 'Los 300's influence. He reportedly orchestrated a meeting between his members and older Latin Kings members. This occurred in mid-November 2025 at Parc del Clot. This park is historically known as a gathering spot for Latin American gangs. Sources close to the gang stated, "They were talking. There were older Latin Kings. 'Blessing' seeks allies to grow larger." This aligns with police information. It indicates 'Los 300' might also be joining forces with the Mara or Barrio 18. Their objective is to challenge 'Los Trinitarios'. This is a dominant Dominican gang in Barcelona's drug scene.
Violence and public brawls are hallmarks of 'Los 300'. The gang uses music, specifically rap videos posted on social media, to send messages and challenge rival groups. These videos often show members with obscured faces. They wear hoods and brandish bladed weapons. Approximately 100 young individuals currently belong to 'Los 300'. Leaving the gang carries a severe penalty. This involves a three-minute beating inflicted by the remaining members. This practice reinforces fear and loyalty within the group.
Impact on Barcelona Residents
The consolidation of 'Los 300' represents a concerning development for Barcelona and L'Hospitalet de Llobregat. Residents in districts like Nou Barris, Sant Andreu, and Sant Martí face increased risks from drug trafficking and violent confrontations. The exploitation of minors for criminal activities also poses a serious social challenge. As 'Los 300' seeks to replicate the power once held by major criminal groups, authorities continue to monitor their expansion and activities. The ongoing efforts to form alliances suggest a potential escalation in gang conflicts across the metropolitan area. This impacts daily life for many.
Sign up for our new entrepreneurs community Bizcelona, now accepting our second wave of applicants.
Originally published by Metrópoli Abierta - Urban Life. Read original article.
