Puigdemont Flees to Belgium After Return to Spain

Former Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont made a dramatic return to Spain this week, only to evade arrest once again and flee to Belgium. Puigdemont, who has been living in self-imposed exile since 2017 due to his role in an illegal independence referendum, spoke to supporters in Barcelona before disappearing into a getaway car. Despite a heavy police presence and a manhunt, he managed to escape with the alleged help of local police officers, two of whom have been arrested. Catalan police are investigating the failure to apprehend him, while his lawyer and party confirm he is now back in Belgium. The incident has sparked questions and demands for explanations from Spanish authorities.