Spain’s Anti-Corruption Prosecutor has appealed to the Supreme Court, requesting a special session to review the current restrictions on former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos and his ex-advisor Koldo García. Both are central figures in the high-profile case involving alleged fraud during the procurement of medical masks amid the pandemic. Prosecutors are seeking stricter measures, emphasizing that real prison terms have already been proposed: 24 years for Ábalos and 19.5 years for Koldo.
Rising risk of escape and the court’s stance
Investigators note that as the trial approaches, the risk of the accused fleeing increases. Previously, Judge Leopoldo Puente had already identified this risk when both defendants last appeared for questioning. Prosecutors now urge the judge to schedule a hearing under Article 505 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which allows for consideration of pre-trial detention or, alternatively, release on bail.
Current restrictions and possible changes
At present, Ábalos and Koldo are required to regularly report to the court, are barred from leaving Spain, and have surrendered their passports. Previously, public prosecutors had pushed for their imprisonment, but the prosecution favored more lenient measures until now. The court supported this position, limiting itself to a travel ban and the requirement to appear before the court.
What the new hearing could change
Now, after the official request from the prosecutor’s office, the situation may change. The court must decide whether the current restrictions are sufficient or if the accused should be placed in pre-trial detention. A decision is expected soon, as public interest in the case remains high and the defendants are under close scrutiny from both the public and the media.
