Four police officers go on trial over 2017 Barcelona voting centre raid
Four members of the National Police are facing charges in Barcelona for their actions during a 2017 raid on a voting centre, with prosecutors seeking long prison terms.
Four National Police officers - a gunman, two sub-inspectors and an inspector - will be tried in Barcelona for their conduct during a 2017 operation at the Institut Ramon Llull voting centre. The prosecution is requesting twelve to thirteen years in prison and a ban from public office, whereas the defence is asking for acquittal. The hearing takes place in the second section of the Audiencia of Barcelona, with around sixty witnesses slated to give evidence, followed by a further round of testimony from about fifty police officers.
Expert forensic evidence is set for September 30, and the trial will conclude on the anniversary of the referendum. Anticipated separatist protests are expected outside the courthouse.
Why it matters
The case tests how far authorities will hold police accountable for actions during the 2017 Catalan referendum crisis.
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