Former Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is facing a new investigation after investigators found luxury watches and jewelery in his safe, reports say Reuters.
Zapatero, a Socialist who ruled Spain from 2004 to 2011 and remains a significant influence in the ruling party, is already under investigation on suspicion of influence peddling related to the 2021 state bailout of Spanish airline Plus Ultra.
As part of that investigation, authorities searched his office last month. Spanish media reported that necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings valued at around 1.2 million euros were found there. Zapatero’s spokesman, Luis Arroyo, said the former prime minister “will give explanations before the judge” related to the found jewelry.
A close ally of Pedro Sanchez
According to Spanish media reports, the jewelry is made of gold, sapphires and emeralds originating from Zambia and Thailand. Investigators believe that Zapatero cannot prove that the necessary customs duties were paid for that jewelry. Because of that, he is now being investigated for tax fraud and smuggling.
His associates previously claimed that it was about items related to family heirlooms, reports AFP. Zapatero has been summoned to appear in court later this month.
Although other Spanish prime ministers have previously testified in corruption cases, this is the first time in the country’s recent history that a former prime minister has been formally investigated. The latest development is a further blow to the Socialist Party of current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, whose close ally is Zapatero.
He denies ever receiving any money from the airline
In the Plus Ultra case, Zapatero is suspected of using his political influence to secure a state aid package worth 53 million euros for that airline and receiving a commission in return. He has repeatedly denied all allegations and denied ever receiving money from Plus Ultra.
The aid package was approved by a state fund established to support strategically important companies affected by the covid-19 pandemic. Police also searched the headquarters of the Socialist Party in Madrid last month and seized several documents as part of an investigation into alleged corruption.
Searches were also carried out in the homes of high-ranking party officials and a prominent businessman. Several other people are also facing charges, including Sanchez’s wife and brother. All disclaim any liability.
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