Discovery of €1.2m jewellery prompts fresh probe into former Spanish PM

Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is under a new investigation following the discovery of €1.2 million worth of luxury jewellery and watches in his safe. This discovery occurred during a raid on his office, which was prompted by a separate probe into alleged influence peddling. Investigators suspect Zapatero cannot prove he paid import duties on the items, leading to an investigation for tax fraud and smuggling. His spokesman stated he will provide explanations to the judge, and associates have suggested the jewels are linked to family inheritance. Zapatero has been summoned to testify in court later this month.

Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is now under investigation for potential tax fraud and smuggling. This new inquiry was launched after police discovered jewelry valued at over €1.3 million in his office safe during a separate investigation into alleged influence-peddling related to the state bailout of Plus Ultra airline. The judge initiated the tax fraud probe due to the apparent lack of tax documentation for the valuable items. Zapatero's spokesperson stated some jewelry was inherited and some acquired on trips, apologizing for initially underestimating its value. Zapatero, who denies any wrongdoing, is scheduled to appear before the judge next week.