Barcelona Condemns Police Abuse Against Fans

FC Barcelona has condemned the disproportionate use of force by police against its members and fans outside the Martinez Valero Stadium before their LaLiga match against Elche on Sunday. The incident occurred when National Police officers tried to confiscate Estelada flags from young Barca supporters near the entrance of the venue.

Videos circulating on social media show police officers brutally thrashing two young fans who were waiting to spectate the game.

The Estelada flag is a Catalan flag associated with the independence movement and is often seen during Barcelona FC matches.

Tensions rose when police officers used kicks, punches, and sticks to beat the young boys.

Barcelona has issued an official statement condemning the police brutality and extending support to the detained fan and his family.

The club has criticized the confiscation of Estelada flags, stating that the flag is a legally endorsed symbol and displaying it is a legitimate exercise of freedom of expression.

The incident has led to political reactions in Spain, with Junts and Esquerra Republicana asking the Spanish Interior Ministry for explanations and calling for an investigation into the police operation.

Junts has questioned the legal basis for confiscating the Estelada flags, raising concerns about the proportionality of the police response.

The Catalan club defeated Elche 5-0 at the Martinez Valero, with the incident overshadowing the match.

The use of force by police has been widely criticized, with many calling for an investigation into the incident.

Barcelona's condemnation of the police abuse is a significant development, with the club standing in support of its fans and criticizing the actions of the police.

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Catalan independence supporters and the Spanish authorities.

The Estelada flag has become a symbol of Catalan identity and independence, and its display is seen as a legitimate exercise of freedom of expression.

The incident is likely to have further repercussions, with calls for an investigation and accountability for the police actions.

In the meantime, Barcelona has offered support to the detained fan and his family, condemning the disproportionate use of force by the police.