PSOE Scandal: Leaked Recordings Expose Alleged Plot to Discredit Civil Guard Investigation

Allegations of PSOE Operation to Undermine Civil Guard Investigation Spain is embroiled in a political scandal following the publication of audio recordings by El Confidencial, allegedly revealing a clandestine operation by the ruling PSOE party to discredit Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Balas of the UCO. Balas is leading investigations into the Prime Minister's wife and brother, and the 'Koldo case'. The recordings appear to show a former PSOE deputy mayor, Leire Díez, now employed by public companies Enusa and Correos, meeting with businessmen Javier Pérez Dolset and Alejandro Hamlyn, who are under investigation for hydrocarbon fraud. Díez allegedly asked for compromising information about Balas, stating: "With four documented things, it's enough. You don't need 250 presumptions." Mr. Hamlyn's response, according to El Confidencial, was: "With one thing that you give me (about Balas), he's dead." Díez allegedly replied: "Perfect. That's it. Even better." The PSOE categorically denies any involvement, calling the publication "defamatory and clearly intended to cause reputational damage." They reserve the right to take legal action. Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the opposition PP, has called for respect for the Civil Guard, stating: "I believe the Civil Guard, and the Civil Guard must be respected, not defamed." This incident raises serious questions about the integrity of the Spanish government and its handling of investigations into high-profile figures. The ongoing investigation promises to further shape the political landscape in Spain.