The Supreme Court of Spain is holding hearings this Thursday to review the precautionary measures imposed on former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos and his ex-advisor Koldo García. The hearing for García’s case has been postponed by an hour and a half so that his lawyer can attend the questioning of businessman Víctor de Aldama at the National Court. Meanwhile, the session regarding Ábalos remains scheduled for 10:00 am.
Judge Leopoldo Puente must decide whether there are grounds to modify the current precautionary measures for both defendants. The prosecution, represented by the People’s Party, is insisting on the pre-trial detention of Ábalos and García. The issue of a possible arrest has become a key point in the case, which involves suspicions of receiving illegal commissions during the procurement of medical masks at the height of the pandemic.
Court hearings and party positions
Koldo García’s lawyer petitioned to postpone the session, as it coincides with the questioning of Víctor de Aldama, considered one of the main intermediaries in the alleged corruption scheme. The investigation is examining García’s contacts with former Canary Islands president and current minister Ángel Víctor Torres regarding the procurement of personal protective equipment.
Despite the defense’s request, the judge decided not to cancel the hearing, but to postpone it to a later time. This decision was justified by the need for a prompt review of the case and the proximity of the judicial venues. As a result, both suspects are required to appear in person before the Supreme Court along with their lawyers.
Charges and Potential Sentences
The initiative to hold the hearing came from the prosecutor and the representatives of the prosecution after demands were made to detain the suspects. In the ongoing investigation into fraudulent state mask procurement, the prosecutor is seeking 24 years in prison for Abalos, and 19.5 years for Garcia. Public prosecutors suggest increasing these sentences to up to 30 years.
Victor de Aldama, who is also involved in this case, is not currently at risk of being taken into custody, as the prosecution is not seeking to change his pretrial status. He faces a request for seven years in prison. Meanwhile, public attention is focused on the fate of the former minister and his advisor, since their possible arrest could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
Risks and What Comes Next
The judge and the anti-corruption prosecutor emphasize that, as the investigation progresses, the risk of the suspects fleeing increases. This factor may prove decisive when deciding on pre-trial detention. If preventive measures change, Ábalos and García could be immediately sent to prison, marking a significant stage in the corruption case over medical supplies procurement.
A court decision is expected soon. The outcome of the hearing may affect not only the fate of those involved, but also public perception of the fight against corruption in Spain. Stay tuned for updates on this high-profile case.
