Mossos d'Esquadra Intensify Search for Exiled Former President Carles Puigdemont
The Mossos d'Esquadra, Catalonia's regional police force, have stepped up their efforts to locate and arrest former president Carles Puigdemont following his recent public appearance in Barcelona. This comes after Puigdemont's seven-year exile in which he has continuously evaded Spanish authorities despite an outstanding arrest warrant for embezzlement.
The police operation was triggered after Puigdemont attended a mass rally of supporters and then headed to the Catalan Parliament for the investiture of socialist leader Salvador Illa. According to police sources who spoke to EFE, the Mossos had initially intended to detain Puigdemont discreetly after the rally at the Arc de Triomphe, considering it a safer environment for arrest due to the planned movement away from the public. However, the operation took an unexpected turn as Puigdemont managed to slip away from police sight while in a convoy surrounded by his supporters.
In response to this situation, Chief Commissioner Eduard Sallent ordered the activation of a security measure known as the Cage device, initially focused around Barcelona but later extended throughout Catalonia. This security measure primarily involves inspections and vehicle checks to aid in Puigdemont's apprehension. Early police assessments indicated suspicions regarding two vehicles that Puigdemont may have used for his escape.
Despite the active arrest warrant issued by Supreme Court judge Pablo Llarena, who denied any possibility of amnesty for Puigdemont, he successfully addressed a crowd of about 3,500 supporters at the promenade of Lluís Companys in front of the Catalonia High Court. The event took place just before the parliamentary session commenced, where leaders of Puigdemont's party, Junts, were not present.
The developments have led so far to significant disruptions on the Catalonian road network, with increased police controls causing delays at various locations, including key exits from Barcelona and the border area with France at La Jonquera in Girona.
This incident not only highlights the ongoing tensions between Catalonia and the Spanish government but also raises questions about the effectiveness and coordination of security measures in dealing with political figures who have posed challenges to Spain’s legal authority in the region. As the situation unfolds, all eyes remain on the Mossos d'Esquadra and their continued pursuit of Puigdemont.
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