**Title: Discovery of €1.2 Million Jewellery Triggers New Investigation of Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero**
Former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is under renewed scrutiny following the discovery of luxury jewellery and watches valued at approximately €1.2 million in his safe. The findings emerged during an ongoing investigation into alleged influence peddling related to his role in a government bailout of the airline Plus Ultra in 2021.
Zapatero, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2011 and remains a significant figure in the ruling Socialist Party, has been facing allegations of corruption linked to the bailout, which provided €53 million to Plus Ultra as part of a government initiative aimed at supporting strategic companies affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The recent discovery of the jewellery occurred during a police raid on Zapatero's office last month. Reports indicate that the items include necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings crafted from gold, sapphires, and emeralds sourced from Zambia or Thailand. Investigators are particularly focused on whether Zapatero can provide proof of payment for customs duties related to these items, leading to suspicions of tax fraud and smuggling.
Luis Arroyo, a spokesperson for Zapatero, stated that the former Prime Minister is prepared to offer explanations to the court regarding the jewellery. Associates of Zapatero have suggested that the jewellery may be linked to family inheritance, as reported by Agence France-Presse.
Zapatero has been summoned to testify in court later this month, marking a significant moment in Spanish political history, as it is the first instance in recent years where a former Prime Minister has been formally investigated for corruption-related charges.
The ongoing inquiry adds to a series of scandals that have plagued the Socialist Party, led by current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who is also a close ally of Zapatero. In the context of the Plus Ultra case, Zapatero has consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he has never received payments or commissions from the airline.
The investigation into Zapatero is part of a broader corruption probe that has seen Spanish police conduct raids on the Madrid headquarters of the Socialist Party, seizing various documents. The inquiry has also extended to the homes of prominent party members and a leading businessman, with multiple individuals, including family members of Prime Minister Sánchez, facing charges.
As the investigation unfolds, it raises questions about the integrity of political figures in Spain and the potential implications for the current government. The Socialist Party, already under pressure from various scandals, is navigating a challenging political landscape as it seeks to maintain public confidence amid ongoing legal challenges involving its members.
The situation remains fluid, with Zapatero expected to provide further details in court, and the investigation potentially impacting the political climate in Spain as it develops.