The Ertzaintza released the two alleged terrorists from Jardun on September 26 "because they could not be caught in the act"

Bingen Zupiria, the Basque Security Counselor, defended the Ertzaintza's decision to release two radicals and an Irish citizen linked to the IRA, stating they had not committed a crime at the time of their identification. Despite the discovery of suspicious materials, including satellite phones and backpacks, Zupiria emphasized that the police acted to uphold the rights of individuals. He transferred responsibility for the legal proceedings to the prosecutor and the judge, while avoiding personal commentary on the significance of the seized materials. Zupiria noted that the Ertzaintza had informed state security forces about the suspects but did not clarify which officials were notified. He also highlighted the need to condemn violence and the importance of addressing radical organizations.