Valencia Fans Probed in Singapore over Protest against Owner

A Spanish Couple’s Unrest in Singapore

A Spanish couple, Dani Cuesta and Mireia Saez, are under investigation in Singapore after protesting against Peter Lim, the Singaporean owner of Spanish first division football club Valencia.

Initial Stopping at Singapore Airport

Cuesta and his wife were stopped at Singapore airport on Friday when they attempted to board a flight to Bali and have been prevented from leaving the country.

Rallying for Change in Singapore

Cuesta had posted photos of himself on social media from several locations in Singapore holding a black and yellow banner that read “Lim go Home”, including outside a building where the businessman is believed to live.

The Investigation

The couple’s “passports have been withdrawn because of an ongoing police investigation” but they have not been charged with any crime, according to Valencia mayor Maria Jose Catala.

Police Investigation Details

So they can leave the hotel, they are living a relatively normal life in Singapore, but they cannot leave the country.

Limits on Free Speech

Singapore has strict laws limiting critical speech and assembly, which includes protests by just one person. The government argues the rules are needed to maintain social order and harmony but rights groups say they are overly broad and make the country repressive.

Aid from Football Authorities

Valencia football club said it hoped for “the best and quickest possible resolution” to the plight of its two supporters, who were reportedly on their honeymoon. The club and La Liga are in contact with the Spanish embassy in Singapore, who have assured them that both are being advised and assisted in everything necessary with the objective of this being resolved as quickly as possible.

Peter Lim’s Football Investment

Peter Lim, one of Singapore’s richest men, bought debt-ridden Valencia in 2014, becoming the Spanish side’s first foreign owner. While his arrival was initially enthusiastically received, he failed to turn around the club’s fortunes and many Valencia fans have turned against him.

Conclusion

The situation raises concerns about the limits of free speech in Singapore, where protests by even one person are illegal. Valencia fans are left hoping for a swift resolution to this unfortunate situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why were the couple arrested?
A: They were not arrested, but stopped at the airport and investigated over their protest against Peter Lim.

Q: How long will the couple be held in Singapore?
A: They cannot leave the country until the investigation is concluded.

Q: Why is the government limiting free speech in Singapore?
A: The government argues the laws are needed to maintain social order and harmony.

Q: How is Valencia football club involved in this situation?
A: The club is supporting the two fans and is in contact with the Spanish embassy to aid in the resolution.