During a coordinated operation, investigators uncovered connections between a small, violent extremist faction and a larger network linked to neo-Nazi ideologies. The group, associated with a faction known as the Front for National Identity, reportedly used fundraising activities to support a would-be assassin targeting a sitting president. Authorities recovered a cache that included weapons and extremist manuals, including knives, machetes, axes, and a document detailing how to activate a bomb via a mobile device. A mysterious manuscript, attributed to an unnamed author, described a self-proclaimed “Spanish princess” and hinted at emboldened plans for political upheaval. The National Police moved quickly to block the threat and arrest those involved. [OPEN CASE]
Officers from Spain’s General Information Commissioner’s Office, along with regional police forces, had tracked Combat 18 for months. The group, with a strong hardcore presence in Catalonia and smaller cells elsewhere such as Madrid, Galicia, and Alicante, showed increasing heat in its internal dynamics. They expressed resonance with violent events in the Middle East and debated domestic political changes, including discussions about amnesty measures for political actors and the future leadership of the country. With Mossos d’Esquadra, authorities detained sixteen original members before further harm could be carried out. [OPEN CASE]
Many detainees linked to the Catalan party FNI, which reportedly raised funds for the would-be assassin of Pedro Sánchez.
Several detainees hailed from the Front for National Identity (FNI), a Catalan group with nationalist leanings that had been implicated in fundraising activities connected to the attempted assassination plot against President Pedro Sánchez. This element underscores a pattern of cross-movement collaboration among far-right circles within Spain. [OPEN CASE]
A figure described as a “Spanish princess”
A manuscript without a title was found in a Galician village among the belongings of one detainee. It spoke of a self-styled “true Spanish Princess,” asserting a lineage defended by those who see themselves as guardians of their blood and traditions, and it called for defending their people against perceived threats. [OPEN CASE]
Combat 18, a group founded as a European offshoot of older violent movements, has historical links to Blood & Honor. It was declared illegal in Spain in 2010. Police sources cited in official reports describe a cadre of men and women aged roughly 30 to 45, seasoned veterans who felt unrepresented by mainstream channels and believed that modern ultras failed to embrace their aims fully. [OPEN CASE]
One arrested individual showed signs of wearing symbols associated with such movements. A photo caption noted this person as a member under investigation, with authorities continuing to document the extent of the organization’s reach. [OPEN CASE]
Authorities also noted that the group maintained ties with a French branch, which offered organizational support and financial backing. Meetings reportedly occurred both in France and Catalonia, underscoring a transnational element to their activity. France has its own laws prohibiting certain extremist groups, and police have connected some of the Spain-based activity to broader plots in the region. [OPEN CASE]
Some Catalan members were already involved in confrontations with migrants and in demonstrations that included attempts to intimidate individuals perceived as vulnerable. In one incident near Montjuïc, members allegedly insulted a person with disabilities wearing LGBTQ+ symbols and attempted an assault, though local police intervened. [OPEN CASE]
“Hitler respected women”
The Catalan and Spanish factions of this movement did not hide their presence. They formed a traditional, hierarchical structure and wore visible insignia while avoiding the label “Nazi,” sometimes preferring the term “Feminazi” as an insult. Police sources indicate that several detained women played prominent roles, with one nearly acting as the group’s leader and discussing where the president should stand. [OPEN CASE]
The group showed an intent to influence or infiltrate other subcultures, including motorcycling communities, and operated with a formal leadership hierarchy that mirrored legitimate organizations. They reportedly funded activities through Rock Against Communism events, and they showed interest in disguise, survivalist training, and other self-reliant movements. Conspiracy theories, including those about health measures, circulated within their circles. [OPEN CASE]
By the time of arrest, authorities said the group had sketched a strategic plan and appeared ready to act. Police described members as courageous in their willingness to commit violence, many of whom came from working-class backgrounds with unstable employment. The investigation notes that financial strain often intertwined with ideological commitments, shaping their worldview. [OPEN CASE]
No junk food or tobacco
Among the texts studied by the group was a draft titled The Political Soldier’s Handbook. It framed a code of conduct that echoed historical extremist rhetoric while adding modern touches. The group criticized fast food and tobacco, and they mocked public displays of indulgence at nationalist gatherings. They reportedly urged healthier living, including regulated diets, though some passages praised aggressive action against perceived enemies. They discussed actions to advance their cause and outlined a desire to begin confrontations sooner rather than later. The message asserted that the struggle was for the land, for pride, and for a supposed racial destiny. [OPEN CASE]
In summary, authorities uncovered a tightly knit circle that valued secrecy, ritual, and a readiness to employ violence to achieve political aims. The investigation highlighted how extremist networks leverage fundraising, transnational connections, and cultural symbols to recruit and coordinate efforts. The ongoing case underscores the need for vigilance against ideologies that seek to undermine democratic norms and to harm individuals who belong to vulnerable groups. [OPEN CASE]