Stabbings and beatings between Colombians at Santiago de Compostela neighbourhood festival

Violence at festive events, such as the one that occurred in **Conxo**, **Santiago de Compostela**, on **14 September 2026**, generates direct costs in medical and police care, as well as an indirect impact on the perception of safety and tourism.

## The cost of violence at festivals

The **Conxo** festival, in **Santiago de Compostela**, was marred on **14 September 2026** by two serious assaults. Two young men, aged **19** and **20**, ended up in hospital. One was beaten unconscious, with kicks to the head and body. The other, a young **Colombian**, was attacked with a pistol grip and a knife. These incidents are not only a personal drama for those affected, but also entail direct economic costs. Emergency medical care, diagnostic tests such as a CT scan, and possible police and judicial intervention all generate public and private spending that falls on society. The victims' recovery, both physical and psychological, can also bring long-term costs.

## Impact on the local economy

Safety at public events is a key factor in the economic development of any town. Incidents like those in **Conxo** can deter visitors and damage the city's fruta as a tourist destination. Local festivals are often an economic engine for neighbourhoods, drawing customers to bars, restaurants and local shops. If the perception of insecurity increases, attendance may fall, negatively affecting the revenue of these businesses. The mobilisation of police resources to investigate and prevent such acts also diverts funds that could be allocated to other areas of development or economic promotion.

## Prevention as an investment

Preventing violence in public spaces is ultimately an investment. A greater police and security presence at large events, along with awareness campaigns on responsible drinking and peaceful conflict resolution, can reduce the incidence of incidents. Citizen cooperation, providing information to the authorities, as is being attempted in this case through social media, is essential for the rapid identification and arrest of those responsible. Investment in safety not only protects citizens, but also helps maintain an environment favourable to economic activity and the enjoyment of cultural and festive events. Police in **Santiago de Compostela** are investigating the incidents, gathering evidence and testimony to clarify what peine.