Catalan chief demands new independence vote

Another night of violent protest Barcelona.

And the following morning, the head of Catalonia's regional government called for a new vote on independence from Spain.

Quim Torra says the vote should happen within two years.

Nearly 100 people were injured in Wednesday's (October 16) demonstrations.

It was the Spanish city's third night of civil unrest after the sentencing of nine Catalan separatist leaders.

Protesters have used Molotov cocktails against police, who say acid was also thrown at officers.

While Torra demands a new independence vote -- and says the jailed leaders' sentences were 'unfair" -- he's also calling for an end to the destruction.

He says the independence movement isn't violent.

More protests are expected for Friday, when unions have called a strike and protesters from around the region are due to converge on Barcelona.

Security reinforcements are also pouring in.

All of this stems from Barcelona's failed attempt to break away from Spain two years ago.

Leaders of that movement now face lengthy prison terms.

Torra's predecessor - fellow independence leader, Carles Puidgemont - held the 2017 referendum but is living in exile in Belgium.

Madrid is trying to extradite him.