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Spanish couple under investigation after protest against Valencia owner Peter Lim

A Spanish couple has been detained in Singapore during their honeymoon after protesting against Peter Lim, owner of Valencia football club. Their passports have been impounded, and while they remain under investigation, no charges have been filed. The couple cannot leave the country.

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The Singapore Police Force confirmed on 9 October 2024 that a Spanish couple, Dani Cuesta, 34, and Mireia Saez, 30, are assisting with investigations after protesting in Singapore against Peter Lim, the Singaporean owner of the Spanish football club Valencia.

The couple, reportedly on their honeymoon, faces restrictions on their movements as the investigation continues.

A police report was lodged against the pair, and their passports have been impounded while the investigation is underway.

According to a statement from the police, no charges have been filed at this time. However, the couple has been prevented from leaving the country until the matter is resolved.

Cuesta and Saez were stopped at Singapore Changi Airport on 4 October while attempting to board a flight to Bali.

They have since been staying in Singapore, where they are allowed to move freely but cannot depart the country.

Valencia’s mayor, Maria Jose Catala, confirmed on 8 October that she had spoken with Spain’s ambassador to Singapore about the couple’s situation. According to Catala, the ambassador assured her that Cuesta and Saez are being “advised and assisted” during the investigation.

The protests involved Cuesta displaying a banner with the message “Lim Go Home” in various locations around Singapore.

Photos of Cuesta holding the banner were posted on social media, including images outside Abelia condominium, located at Ardmore Park, which is reportedly owned by Mr Lim.

Other protest locations included Esplanade and Marina Bay, significant landmarks in Singapore. In addition, a sticker with the slogan “Lim Out” was seen pasted on a gate, further reflecting dissatisfaction with Mr Lim’s management of Valencia.

Peter Lim, a prominent figure in Singapore, acquired Valencia in 2014.

His ownership has been met with increasing criticism from fans over decisions regarding the club’s direction. The controversies include the selling of key players, frequent changes in coaching staff, and ongoing issues surrounding the development of a new stadium.

Valencia’s current standing in 18th place in LaLiga has heightened discontent among supporters.

Valencia Club and the LaLiga Office released a joint statement on 8 October, confirming their communication with the Spanish embassy in Singapore regarding the incident.

The statement emphasized that the embassy is providing assistance to the couple and expressed the club’s hope for a swift resolution to the matter.

“We wish for the best and quickest outcome,” the statement read, reflecting the club’s desire to address the situation amicably.

The incident has attracted attention from both Spanish and Singaporean authorities, given the unusual nature of the protest and the legal complexities involved in such cases across international jurisdictions.

Meanwhile, Spanish news outlets have highlighted the couple’s inability to return home, focusing on the diplomatic efforts being made to support their release.

The Spanish embassy in Singapore has yet to release an official statement, though media outlets have sought further details.

It remains unclear how long the investigation will take or what potential outcomes the couple might face, including whether their actions could lead to formal charges under Singaporean law.

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