Barcelona City Council will step up security during the upcoming La Mercè festivities with new anti-knife checks designed to detect and confiscate dangerous objects. The Guardia Urbana will lead the operation, called ‘Operació Ferro’, which involves selective entry controls in areas where large crowds are expected.
Officers will use handheld metal detectors to uncover concealed weapons and prevent assaults. The initiative forms part of a wider safety plan that also includes extra public transport, enhanced cleaning services and reinforced police presence. Both Mossos d’Esquadra and the Guardia Urbana will coordinate alongside emergency services to ensure swift responses in case of incidents.
Drones will also be deployed to capture live images, which can be used both for prevention and emergency management. Capacity limits will be enforced in Plaza Sant Jaume to avoid risks linked to overcrowding, while designated safe routes will be set up to guide people to transport connections and reduce the risk of violence, including gender-based and LGTBIphobic attacks.
The council has confirmed that three dedicated ‘purple points’ will be available on the nights of 26 and 27 September, where victims of sexual or LGTBIphobic aggression can seek immediate support. Meanwhile, roadside alcohol and drug checks will target areas of heavy traffic, adding another layer of safety.
To manage the anticipated crowds, the city will introduce temporary traffic restrictions, diversions and parking bans in several districts. Cleaning efforts will also be reinforced with more than 1,200 workers, 557 teams and over 1,300 extra bins across the city.
The new anti-knife checks highlight a firm push by the council to keep La Mercè safe while balancing celebration with public security.
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