A new corruption scandal has erupted in Madrid involving the airline Plus Ultra. In December, officers from the National Police’s economic crimes division searched the carrier’s offices and detained several executives. Among those held were CEO Julio Martínez, administrator Roberto Rosselli, another entrepreneur with the same name, and a Spanish lawyer. The operation was the result of a months-long investigation launched by the anti-corruption prosecutor’s office at the start of the year.
Investigators suspect that 53 million euros allocated to Plus Ultra in 2021 as part of government support may have been misused. Prosecutors allege that these funds became part of a money laundering scheme involving capital from Venezuela. Interest in the case was renewed after French and Swiss authorities provided new information to Spanish officials in 2024 regarding the movement of funds through European accounts.
Schemes and suspicions
According to investigators, the money allocated to save the airline may have been transferred to foreign accounts linked to an organized crime group. Prosecutors believe the funds originated from Venezuelan government programs, particularly the CLAP food distribution system and the national bank’s gold sales. Through a complex network of companies, these funds allegedly made their way to Europe, where they were laundered.
As part of the investigation, a Madrid court has decided to release the detainees on condition that they do not leave the country. They are prohibited from leaving Spain, and their passports have been confiscated. All individuals involved must report to the police weekly. The investigation is ongoing, and the list of suspects may grow.
New suspects
Unexpected new names have emerged in the case. Among them are the current prime minister’s wife, Begoña Gómez, government adviser Cristina Álvarez, and entrepreneur Juan Carlos Barrabes. All were officially added to the investigation in the spring of 2024. The judicial probe is gradually narrowing the number of suspects, but authorities remain focused on the potential abuse of official power for personal gain and the misappropriation of public funds.
Specifically, investigators are examining whether Begoña Gómez used her assistant for personal matters and are reviewing the circumstances surrounding government contracts awarded to Barrabes’ companies. Actions at Universidad Complutense also came under scrutiny, as prosecutors believe there may have been abuses of authority in the allocation of budgetary funds.
Investigation continues
Meanwhile, another high-profile case is being prepared for hearing in Madrid, involving corruption among former ministers and senior members of the ruling party. Court sessions for these episodes are scheduled for next spring. The investigation into the Plus Ultra case remains closed to the public, with details of the operation undisclosed, and those involved continue to be monitored by law enforcement.
This entire story once again raises questions about the transparency of public fund allocation and oversight of their use. The investigation is expected to be lengthy, and new details may emerge at any time.
