Logroño steps up its security arrangements ahead of the Fiestas de San Mateo security operation. According to the city and the Government Delegation in La Rioja a total of 579 personnel will be coordinated for the period from 19 to 25 September 2026: 365 members of the state security forces and 214 officers from the Policía Local. In addition, 30 new surveillance cameras will be installed, and aerial resources will also be used to monitor the situation.
The plan was discussed on 9 September at the Junta Local de Seguridad at the town hall, chaired by the mayor Conrado Escobar and the Government Delegate Beatriz Arraiz . The aim is a visible presence at key locations, a rapid response capability and prevention at large gatherings. For the opening event, the Chupinazo, at 12:00 on 19 September, police and public-order services will establish controlled access to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento Staff from the Servicio de Protección Civil will support the checkpoints and look out for vulnerable people and orderly entry and exit.
Temporary concrete bollards will be installed around the perimeter of the main event areas as a physical security measure. They are intended to protect pedestrian areas from vehicle attacks while keeping emergency routes clear. The city stresses that the security operation combines a visible presence with discreet prevention and investigative measures.
The measures build on previous security arrangements for San Mateo. In past years, access to the Chupinazo has already been managed, pickpocketing tackled and support points set up to prevent sexual violence. The authorities say Logroño is one of Spain’s safest large cities; accordingly, the focus is on prevention and the ability to respond quickly to incidents.
New measures include expanded video surveillance and greater use of aerial resources to monitor busy areas. Organisers traditionally expect large crowds in the city centre during the festival week. In the view of those responsible, the plan’s success will depend largely on coordinated cooperation between Policía Nacional, Policía Local, city services and the public.
The authorities announced that they would assess the situation throughout the Fiestas de San Mateo and adjust the security operation as needed. The city will publish details of road closures, diversions and access rules in good time before the main events.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).