Spain opens new probe into ex-PM Zapatero over jewellery found in office
Investigators say the seized items were worth about €1.3 million and lacked proof of customs duties, widening a corruption case tied to the Plus Ultra bailout.
- A Spanish High Court judge opened a tax fraud and smuggling probe into former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero on Friday after luxury jewels valued at about €1.3 million were discovered in his office safe.
- This inquiry follows an existing probe into Zapatero's alleged influence peddling regarding a €53m government bailout of Plus Ultra in 2021, which he has consistently denied.
- Spanish media reported the seized necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings contain gold, sapphires, and emeralds originating from Thailand or Zambia; associates claim the items are linked to family inheritance.
- Zapatero's spokesman Luis Arroyo said, "He will provide explanations before the judge," regarding the jewels, as investigators allege the former premier cannot provide proof of customs duty payments.
- The inquiry marks the first time in recent Spanish history a former premier has faced formal investigation, adding pressure on the Socialist Party of Prime Minister Pedro following police raids last month.
54 Articles
54 Articles
Jewellery discovery adds to legal woes for Spain ex-PM Zapatero
MADRID, Spain — Former Spanish prime minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero is under investigation for alleged tax fraud and smuggling after jewellery was discovered during a search of his office, a court said Friday.
The valuation made by the Ansorena jewellery details a collection composed of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings with dozens of diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds from different countries
Spain opens new probe into ex-PM Zapatero over jewellery found in office
A Spanish High Court judge investigating former Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero for suspected corruption has opened a separate probe over jewellery found during a search of his office, the court said on Friday.
Jewellery with "not justified at the moment" are valued at 1.3 million euros. Zapatero claims that they are "family and present inheritances", but may incur the crime of smuggling.
The historical and highly respected figure of the Spanish left is accused of not being able to "justify the payment of customs duties, special taxes or taxes associated with the importation" of these jewels with a total value of "€1,323,915".
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