Spain's Civil Guard raids ex-minister Ábalos' home

The Civil Guard has searched the home of former minister José Luis Ábalos in Valencia as part of a new operation in the Koldo case, an inquiry into alleged commissions on medical supply contracts. The search was first reported by EFE.

The Central Operational Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard searched the residence of former minister **José Luis Ábalos** in **Valencia**. The news agency **EFE** broke the story, noting that the search is part of a new operation in what is known as the Koldo case, an investigation into alleged irregular commissions in the purchase of medical supplies during the pandemic.

## What is the Koldo case?

The Koldo case is named after **Koldo García**, who served as an advisor to Minister Ábalos. The investigation examines whether commissions were charged on public contracts for masks and other medical equipment awarded to an intermediary company. The probe is led by the **National Court (Audiencia Nacional)**, with the UCO being the Civil Guard unit handling the judicial proceedings.

Searching a private residence is a procedural step that requires judicial authorization. It does not, in itself, imply formal charges or a conviction: it is an investigative measure within an ongoing procedure.

## Former minister under scrutiny

Ábalos served as Minister of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda between **2020** and **2021**, having previously been the PSOE's Secretary of Organization. His name has appeared in the case since the start of the investigations, and his closest circle has been probed at various stages of the proceedings.

The search of his home in Valencia occurs during a new operation, according to EFE. The case remains in the instruction phase, with no oral trial held yet, and none of the individuals under investigation have been convicted.

## Caution regarding published information

In cases still under investigation, it is important to distinguish between what a judge has authorized and what has not yet been proven. A home search is a procedural step, not a verdict. Any assessment of the guilt of those under investigation must wait for the final judicial ruling.