The Councillor of Security, Bingen Zupiria, will appear before the Basque Parliament's Commission of Institutions, Public Governance and Security next Tuesday to provide the necessary explanations regarding the incidents at Loiu Airport during the reception of members of the Global Sumud Flotilla. The councillor stated that they will attempt to "clarify the incidents that occurred and any potential responsibilities as soon as possible".
Four individuals were arrested for serious disobedience, resistance, and assaulting a law enforcement officer during the incidents that took place early Saturday afternoon at Loiu Airport upon the arrival of the Global Sumud Flotilla members.
The Department of Security explained that the arrival, "which was not communicated to the Ertzaintza", coincided with the arrivals and departures of fans for the rugby finals being held in Bilbao. "The behaviour of some concentrated individuals obstructed the normal circulation of people leaving the airport's departure area, leading to confrontations with Ertzaintza agents, who had to use their regulation batons, and resistance from the gathered individuals".
The Department also recalled "the existing context of sensitivity across Europe regarding the illegal detention of displaced members of the Flotilla and the treatment they have been subjected to".
Following the events at Loiu Airport, the Ertzaintza's Internal Affairs Directorate has launched an investigation to "verify whether the actions of the agents comply with current instructions". Furthermore, the Department of Security has informed the Control and Transparency Commission of the Basque Police about the police action and the events.
Councillor Bingen Zupiria, for his part, has requested an urgent appearance before the Commission of Institutions, Public Governance and Security of the Basque Parliament to "give the necessary explanations". Specifically, he has requested that the appearance take place next Tuesday, the day the Commission is already convened to discuss other planned matters.
“"We will try to clarify the incidents that occurred and any potential responsibilities as soon as possible."
The department officials have expressed regret over what happened. Regarding the detainees, after the necessary procedures were completed at the police facilities, two of the arrested individuals have been released and will be required to appear before the Judicial Authority when summoned.
