29 Sep 2018 | 04:55 PM UTC
Spain: Clashes in Barcelona between demonstrators and police Sep. 29
Clashes break out between pro-independence protesters and police in Barcelona September 29; at least 14 people wounded and six arrested during the protests
Event
Thousands of people for Catalan independence and in support of the Spanish national police staged demonstrations in Barcelona on Saturday, September 29. Clashes reportedly broke out between police and separatist protesters; at least 14 people were lightly wounded in the altercations and six were arrested. Similar demonstrations both for and against Catalan independence are possible in Barcelona and other regional cities ahead of and during the anniversary of last year's Catalan independence referendum on Monday, October 1. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites.
Context
Notably, on September 11, some 1 million people took part in a pro-separatist march in Barcelona, according to local police.
Political tensions flared between the Spanish government and supporters of Catalan independence following Catalonia's controversial and unsanctioned independence referendum on October 1, 2017. The results, in which 90 percent of the votes were in favor of independence, were ruled unconstitutional and annulled by the central government in Madrid.
Advice
Individuals in Barcelona are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
