The leaders of the 'patriotic police' minimize their maneuvers against the Pujol in the trial
High-ranking police officials have downplayed their involvement in illicit operations against former Catalan president Jordi Pujol during a trial.
The ongoing trial against the Pujol family, held at the Audiencia Nacional since last November, has seen significant testimonies from senior police officials regarding the controversial 'Operation Catalunya'. Four former high-ranking officers of the National Police have appeared in court to provide evidence about alleged illicit activities aimed at gathering evidence against Jordi Pujol, who was the president of Catalonia. During the proceedings, the officers exchanged accusations but largely evaded direct accountability, failing to clarify their roles in the alleged conspiracy.
Eugenio Pino, the operational chief of the police from 2012 to 2016, along with retired commissioners José Manuel Villarejo and Marcelino Martín-Blas, as well as inspector Bonifacio Díez, have all distanced themselves from the supposed manipulations of the operation. Their testimonies have highlighted the lack of clarity and responsibility in police actions that have been criticized for prioritizing political objectives over legal protocols. The accusations of a 'patriotic police' engaging in shadowy practices have raised serious concerns about the integrity of the police force and its interactions with political figures.
As the trial unfolds, the implications of these testimonies could have far-reaching effects, not only for the individuals involved but also for public trust in law enforcement in Spain. The scrutiny of the police's methods during Operation Catalunya is part of a broader discussion regarding governmental overreach and the accountability of officers when conducting investigations that cross ethical lines. This case could thus serve as a pivotal moment in redefining the relationship between state security forces and political accountability in Spain.