Spanish Ex-PM Zapatero Faces Tax Fraud Inquiry Over Jewellery

Police investigating former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero have discovered jewellery valued at over €1.3 million in his office safe, prompting a new probe into possible tax fraud and smuggling Source: The Guardian. The discovery occurred during a search on 19 May as part of a separate influence-peddling inquiry related to the state bailout of Plus Ultra airline.

The Discovery

A safe in Zapatero's office contained necklaces, bracelets, rings, and watches initially estimated by his spokesperson at €30,000–€50,000, but an expert assessment put the value at €1,323,915 Source: The Guardian. The BBC reported the value as €1.2 million Source: BBC. Judge José Luis Calama of the Audiencia Nacional opened a new investigation, noting that the lack of tax documentation for such high-value items constitutes "an objective and rational indication of the possible existence of significant tax fraud" Source: The Guardian.

The Allegations

Zapatero is already under investigation in the Plus Ultra case, accused of using his influence to secure a €53 million government bailout for the airline in 2021 and receiving a commission in return—allegations he denies Source: BBC. The new tax fraud investigation stems from the apparent absence of paperwork covering VAT, property transfer tax, inheritance tax, or income tax obligations Source: The Guardian.

Denials and Next Steps

A spokesperson for Zapatero apologized for initially misstating the jewellery's value, explaining that some pieces were inherited and others purchased on trips Source: The Guardian. Zapatero, who has consistently denied wrongdoing, is due to appear before Judge Calama next week. In a video statement, he affirmed his "absolute respect for the law" and willingness to cooperate Source: The Guardian. The case adds to a series of corruption investigations involving Spain's Socialist party, including those targeting current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's family and administration Source: The Guardian.