Puigdemont's Disappearance Sparks Controversy in Spain

Carles Puigdemont, the exiled leader of the Catalan independence movement, made a surprising return to Barcelona after six years in self-imposed exile. His arrival marked the first time he had been in the city since fleeing following the controversial 2017 independence referendum. Puigdemont addressed supporters, igniting hopes among pro-independence activists, but shortly after, he vanished, eluding a significant police operation aimed at capturing him. The circumstances surrounding Puigdemont's disappearance have raised questions about the effectiveness of the police response. Reports indicate that a police aerial drone, which was monitoring Puigdemont's movements, inexplicably switched its focus away from him at a critical moment, allowing him to escape. This revelation was disclosed by the Mossos d’Esquadra, Catalonia's police force, in a leaked report that has drawn considerable media attention. Adding to the controversy, the report also highlighted a lack of contingency planning by the police for scenarios in which Puigdemont might not voluntarily surrender. This oversight has led to criticism of the police's preparedness and strategy in handling high-profile cases involving political figures. As Puigdemont remains at large, the incident has reignited debates over Catalonia's independence movement and the Spanish government's approach to dissent. The implications of this event could have lasting effects on the political landscape in Spain, as both supporters and opponents of independence closely monitor the unfolding situation.