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The controversial group took to the streets of the Catalonia's capital as part of the annual Million Mask March. So far, the demonstration has been peaceful. A statement in English on the group’s website read: “Claims have been made that the people living in the Catalan region do not want to breakaway from Spain. However, the Spanish government and media fail to recognise that the people of Catalonia elected the government officials due to their pro-independence stances. “The Spanish government has met the region of Catalonia with violence and an unwillingness to negotiate, while Catalans have attempted to peacefully negotiate for years.

AFP Anonymous take their Million Mask March to Barcelona

“Over the last five years, the Catalan government has no longer tried to negotiate – Catalans have asked for a referendum on independence repeatedly, but the Spanish government always says ‘no.’ Every attempt at dialogue has been shut down.” The collective is calling this year’s event “a festival of lulz and resistance” in light of the “abuses and malpractice of governments… and the encroaching destruction of many civil liberties.” The activist group claimed responsibility for launching a wave of cyber attacks against the Spanish government, which they accused of hindering the Catalans’ freedom to vote for independence. The group made the attacks known by using hashtags such as #opCatalunya, #FreeCatalonia, and #OpSave Catalonia.

Million Masks March Fri, November 6, 2015 The Million Mask March organised by Anonymous took place in London with reports that there will be more protests to follow Play slideshow PA 1 of 15 A man is detained by police on Regent Street in London during the Million Mask March bonfire night protest organised by activist group Anonymous

Over the last five years, the Catalan government has no longer tried to negotiate – Catalans have asked for a referendum on independence repeatedly, but the Spanish government always says ‘no.’ Every attempt at dialogue has been shut down Anonymous statement on the situation in Catalonia

Among the websites affected were Spain’s Ministry of Public Works and Transport and the homepage of the Constitutional Court. In a video released on September 24, the activist group declared: “We wish to state that the Catalan people’s desire to express their will via a referendum is the majority view and cuts across all strata of society.” The worldwide group are also expected to hold a demonstration in London to mark Bonfire Night which starts at 6pm. In the past, the demonstrations in London have been marred by violence and criminal damage.

AFP Anonymous supporters demonstrate in Barcelona

Police have slapped strict restrictions on the rally and told potential troublemakers to stay away. They said anyone who breaks new conditions imposed under the Public Order Act will face immediate arrest. The march has been limited to a three-hour slot between 6pm and 9pm on Sunday and protesters will be allowed to congregate only in Trafalgar Square, on the stretch of Whitehall outside Downing Street and in Parliament Square. The event in London is held each year on Bonfire Night to protest against the Government and capitalism.

AFP The collective Anonymous has demonstrated in Barcelona