ETA-linked demonstrations banned in Spain’s Basque region

Basque separatist protests banned in Spain

MADRID — Spanish and Basque authorities have banned three protests marches called by groups linked to the armed group ETA in the northern cities Bilbao and San Sebastian.

National Court Judge Baltasar Garzon has prohibited two protests in support of ETA prisoners planned for Friday and Saturday in San Sebastian saying they constituted defense of terrorism.

Also Thursday, the Basque regional government banned a demonstration in favor of Basque independence called for Aug. 21 in Bilbao because of the organizers’ alleged links to ETA, which has killed three people and injured dozens in recent weeks.

Basque regional police clashed with ETA sympathizers over the weekend following the banning of another ETA-linked demonstration.