These Are the Seven Properties That Tighten the Noose Around Ábalos in the Koldo Case

The judicial investigation involving José Luis Ábalos continues to progress while a crucial report from the Central Operational Unit (UCO) is awaited. This document will thoroughly analyze his assets.

At the center of the investigation are seven houses for which Ábalos has had to account to the Justice. Now, they will be thoroughly examined.

The key to the inquiry lies in determining whether Aldama received favors within the Administration in exchange for payments or in the form of benefits.

The Seven Properties

Within Madrid, there are five properties under suspicion. One of the most significant is located at Paseo de la Castellana, number 164. This property was initially acquired by Aldama and supposedly resold later to the former minister.

It has an estimated value of 1.9 million euros for its 2,691 sq. ft. (250 square meters).

However, the sales contract registered between Aldama and Ábalos sets a price of 750,000 euros. A price significantly lower than the market value.

Ábalos has argued that this agreement was never formalized and that he never received the keys to the property.

According to him, it was occupied and therefore had a lower value.

Three other apartments in the capital have also been mentioned in the case. According to Aldama, these were rented on different dates for the use of Ábalos, Koldo García, Minister Torres. And, on some occasions, lady companions, according to Aldama.

Between November 9 and 10, 2018, an apartment was rented through Airbnb on Atocha Street, 25.

Subsequently, on December 15 and 16 of the same year, another property was rented on Ayala Street, 44. Finally, between January 16 and 24, 2020, an apartment was occupied on Oquendo Street. Supposedly, and always according to Aldama, intended for the Vice President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez, during her visit to Spain.

One of the properties has caused special controversy by linking Minister Torres. Aldama claimed that the Canarian politician used the rented property on Atocha Street.

The fact is that Torres has presented evidence that he was in the Canary Islands on those dates. Supported by airline certificates confirming his stay there.

Another property in Madrid, located in the Torrespaña building (Plaza de España, 18), was occupied between 2019 and 2021 by Jésica Rodríguez, Ábalos's ex-partner. During that period, the rental payments were assumed by Luis Alberto Escolano, Aldama's associate. Additionally, Rodríguez worked at Ineco in collaboration with ADIF, through a position facilitated by Koldo García's brother.

Outside the capital, there are two additional properties under investigation. In Cádiz, a villa in La Alcaidesa, acquired by a company linked to Aldama for 526,000 euros, where Ábalos is said to have resided, is being analyzed.

Although Ábalos insists that he paid his rent, the judge highlights the coincidence that most of the properties belonged to Aldama. All during his time in the Government.

Finally, it has been revealed that Ábalos owns land in Chimbote, Peru. Although initially, this asset is not linked to Aldama, the land was intended for a foundation focused on social development. However, a legal issue has prevented the formal transfer of the space to the local municipality.

Currently, the UCO continues to analyze all these elements, which could provide new revelations about the 'Koldo case' plot.