The Central Operative Unit of the Civil Guard has spent almost ten hours searching the Valencia home of former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos. This operation was carried out under the orders of Supreme Court Judge Leopoldo Puente and is part of an ongoing investigation into the suspected manipulation of public contracts during the pandemic, linked to the Koldo case.

Following the search, Ábalos stated that the authorities were courteous and professional during the process, which he described as minimal. He revealed that they primarily focused on his phone and expressed confidence in his continued innocence, despite facing what he termed a ‘social condemnation.’ He also voiced concerns about the implications of parallel trials affecting his reputation.

Legal sources reported that the search began early in the morning and aimed to gather evidence regarding potential collusion in awarding public works contracts to specific companies in exchange for financial compensation. Ábalos has been implicated in accusations of influence peddling and corruption, though he has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

In light of the investigation, political reactions have surfaced, with the government affirming its commitment to upholding justice. The leader of the Popular Party, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, linked the ongoing legal issues to current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, highlighting the political ramifications of the investigation. Ábalos remains a contentious figure as this investigation unfolds.