The former Spanish socialist president José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero has become embroiled in a new controversy after the Justice system found a collection of jewelry and watches valued at 1,323,915 euros in a safe in his office, according to a preliminary expert report prepared by specialists from the auction house Ansorena and the Spanish Gemological Institute.
The investigation stems from a case that was already analyzing the alleged influence peddling exercised to favor the state rescue of the airline Plus Ultra in 2021. Now, the judge of the National Court José Luis Calama has opened a separate case to investigate the origin of the found assets.
According to investigators, the seized items lack sufficient documentation to prove their acquisition and compliance with the corresponding tax and customs obligations.
A necklace worth 278,000 euros among the most valuable pieces
Among the objects found stands out a 18-carat white gold necklace with two natural emeralds from Zambia and diamonds, appraised at 278,000 euros.
Other highly valuable pieces were also found:
White gold necklace with 13 sapphires and diamonds: 220,000 euros.
Choker with five natural rubies and diamonds: 155,000 euros.
Set of earrings and ring with emeralds: 165,000 euros.
