Spanish judge strips Begoña Gómez of passport, prompting police union criticism

Judge Juan Carlos Peinado ordered the removal of Begoña Gómez's passport as a precautionary measure while she faces four criminal charges. The judge also mandated that she appear in court every two weeks. Peinado justified the decision by suggesting that police agents who form part of Gómez's security detail could, voluntarily or on orders, help her flee, noting that the protection associated with the president’s office is temporary.

Police unions JUPOL and the Unified Police Union (SUP) responded sharply, denouncing the judge’s remarks as "barbaric" and demanding a retraction. They emphasized that police officers are bound to obey the law and cannot assist illegal actions. The decision has also drawn commentary from right‑wing commentators who described the ruling as irresponsible and technically flawed.