Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is under investigation for tax fraud and smuggling after luxury jewelry valued at €1.3 million was discovered in his office. This new probe adds to an existing inquiry into alleged influence peddling.
This investigation into a former head of government highlights ongoing corruption concerns within Spanish politics and could impact the ruling Socialist Party, particularly given Zapatero's close ties to current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is facing a new investigation after luxury jewelry and watches valued at €1.3 million were discovered in his office. The Spanish National Police are investigating potential tax fraud and smuggling offenses, as Zapatero has allegedly been unable to provide proof of payment for customs duties on the items, which include gold, sapphires, and emeralds. This new probe comes as Zapatero is already under scrutiny for alleged influence peddling related to the 2021 government bailout of Spanish airline Plus Ultra. Zapatero, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2011, has denied any wrongdoing. He is scheduled to testify in court later this month regarding the jewelry discovery, marking a significant development as no former premier in recent Spanish history has faced such formal investigation.