Carlos Fernández, a former councilor linked to the notorious Operation Malaya corruption scandal in Marbella, has returned to Spain after 19 years on the run. In November, he agreed to a deal with the prosecutor's office that allowed him to avoid imprisonment by acknowledging two crimes, which included the payment of a fine and compensation to the municipality. Specifically, he was ordered to pay 258,000 euros, along with interest of 3,500 euros, as dictated by the 2013 verdict in the Saqueo II case.

Despite making the payment, the City Council of Marbella disputes the amount, arguing that the actual sum owed exceeds 250,000 euros, suggesting that Fernández may owe them more than the agreed compensation. This discrepancy raises questions about the terms of the settlement and the adequacy of the penalties imposed for his involvement in a significant corruption case that had a considerable impact on the local governance and public trust in Marbella. The council's complaint emphasizes ongoing tensions regarding accountability and reparation in cases of political corruption.

The unfolding situation not only highlights the ongoing repercussions of the Operation Malaya scandal but also illustrates the complex dynamics between former political figures and local governing bodies in Spain. As Fernández navigates this legal and financial aftermath, the case serves as a reminder of the challenges that municipalities face in ensuring justice and restoring public confidence in governance, particularly in areas like Marbella that have been historically affected by corruption.