Chase Begins at Airport Terminal
On Tuesday 27th October at around 18:30, a 56-year-old Algerian man driving without a taxi licence fled from a preventive checkpoint set up by the Mossos d'Esquadra's Trànsit unit at Terminal 1 of El Prat airport. The officers had identified him as a repeat offender in unauthorised taxi operations and attempted to stop him. Instead, he drove off with passengers inside, tourists en route to the terminal.
High-Speed Pursuit Through Barcelona
Ignoring police instructions, the driver initiated a multi-kilometre chase that ended on Gran Via in Barcelona, near La Campana. The pursuit, confirmed by ElCaso.com, involved reckless driving and serious disobedience of a lawful police order. These offences go beyond administrative violations and carry criminal penalties under Spanish law.
Arrest and Aftermath
The Mossos, Catalonia's regional police, intercepted the vehicle and arrested the man on suspicion of two criminal offences. He now awaits arraignment before the duty court. The tourists, though unharmed, were left shaken by the incident.
The passengers were unharmed during the chase, although they ended the journey very frightened and unsure of what was happening.
They were transported back to Terminal 1 in a legal taxi arranged by officers.
Ongoing Crackdown on Illegal Taxis
This incident forms part of a sustained operation by the Mossos d'Esquadra to curb unlicensed taxi services around El Prat. Drivers operating without permits face fines of up to €4,000 and vehicle immobilisation. Authorities warn that such operators often target tourists unfamiliar with regulated transport options. Legal taxi services in Barcelona are strictly controlled. Visitors are advised to use authorised taxi ranks at the airport or book through licensed apps to avoid exploitation and risk.
Sources: El Nacional.
