A police officer from the Catalan regional police force, the Mossos d’Esquadra, has been arrested in connection with Carles Puigdemont’s escape. Reports indicate that a car belonging to the officer was used in Puigdemont’s escape, leading to the officer’s arrest. The Mossos d’Esquadra confirmed the arrest but declined further comment on the matter.
Meanwhile, Puigdemont’s disappearance has caused chaos in Barcelona, with protests and roadblocks causing traffic jams. Political leaders have criticized the situation, with the leader of Puigdemont’s Junts party expressing disappointment in his pro-independence partners for supporting Salvador Illa as the new regional president. Illa, in turn, has emphasized the need to focus on concrete issues facing the region, rather than independence.
Opposition leaders have condemned the Madrid government for failing to arrest Puigdemont, with accusations of incompetence and humiliation. The situation in Catalonia may impact the approval of the 2025 draft budget, as Puigdemont’s party could vote against it. However, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is unlikely to call early elections and will continue to work on defusing the Catalan problem.
Overall, the arrest of the police officer, the ongoing search for Puigdemont, and the political fallout highlight the complex and tense situation in Catalonia. The region continues to grapple with political divisions and the aftermath of Puigdemont’s escape.
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