Spain: Fresh charges against former government president Zapatero over tax evasion and smuggling
Spanish former government president José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero faces new accusations of tax evasion and smuggling of luxury jewels valued at 1.3 million euros.
Spain: Fresh charges against former government president Zapatero over tax evasion and smuggling
Spanish former government president José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, who was already under investigation for abuse of office, now must also respond to new accusations. Judge José Luis Calama of the National Court accuses him of tax evasion and smuggling, in a case affecting the importation of luxury jewels and watches valued at 1,323,915 euros.
According to documents published by the National Court, the socialist politician—head of government from 2004 to 2011—allegedly failed to submit documentation justifying payment of tariffs, special taxes and taxes relating to the importation of these articles. He denies all allegations.
The investigation initially began focusing on the role Zapatero played in the rescue of a small airline in 2021. On 19 May, when the first charges were brought, the judge summoned him for questioning as the "presumed head of a stable and hierarchical structure" that aimed at obtaining bribes.
During the investigation on 19 May, authorities discovered in a safe deposit box belonging to the former government president numerous luxury jewels and watches. Zapatero maintained they were family inheritances, whilst his lawyer had publicly mentioned a figure considerably lower than what investigators estimate.
The new charges are added to those of abuse of office and money laundering. Judge Calama has scheduled interrogations for 17 and 18 June.
The case creates political pressure on the current socialist government of Pedro Sánchez, with the opposition demanding resignation and early elections.
Source: Naftemporiki
Source: Naftemporiki