Spain opens new probe into ex-PM Zapatero over jewellery found in office
Investigators say the 103 pieces lack proof of origin and customs documents, raising possible tax fraud and smuggling questions.
- 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.
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The former president of the government must sit on June 17 and 18 in front of the judge José Luis Calama, who has just extended his charge to a tax offence and another one of smuggling for jewels valued at 1.3 million euros The judge investigates for crime
Along with a necklace there are gargantillas, bracelets, hoops and watches that the Justice requested to examine a jewelry company known in Madrid, Ansorena, and the Spanish Gemological Institute, which valued the total of jewels at 1,300,000 euros.
By Pau Mosquera, CNN en Español The Spanish National Court has agreed to open a new investigation against former Spanish President José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero for the possible commission of tax and smuggling offenses related to the jewelry that National Police agents found on May 19 when they searched his office located on Ferraz Street in Madrid.
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.
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