The future of the region and wether it would remain part of Spain has been in doubt since the controversial referendum on October 1 in which more than 90 per cent of those who voted backed forming an independent nation.
Madrid sacked the Catalan president and dissolved its parliament just hours after the wealthy region unilaterally declared independence following the ballot.
Today, pro-secession protestors blocked major roads with burning barricades to demand the release of Catalan independence leaders, who were jailed for their part in organising the referendum and the declaration that followed.
Around 50 roads are believed to be affected as the wealthy region came to a standstill this morning, with thousands of people unable to get to work.
This is a breaking story. More to follow…