Mar 17 • 19:48 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The former director general of Highways received 25,000 from one of the companies under suspicion in the 'Koldo case'

The former director general of Highways, Javier Herrero, is implicated in the Koldo case regarding fraudulent contracting practices, having received payments from a company involved in a contract awarded to a consortium he oversaw.

Javier Herrero, the former director general of Highways under Spain's Ministry of Transport, has been linked to the ongoing Koldo case, which investigates alleged contract rigging and illegal commissions in public works. A recent court resolution revealed that Herrero received €25,440 from Aquaterra Servicios Infraestructuras, a company that was part of a consortium led by Acciona. This consortium won a significant €92.4 million contract in 2019 for infrastructure work managed by Herrero’s department, raising serious concerns about potential conflicts of interest and corruption within public procurement processes.

Acciona has acknowledged having identified "irregular procedures" related to some projects but has maintained that public funds have not been compromised despite the allegations surrounding the Koldo case. The probe, conducted by Spain's National Court, involves scrutiny over how contracts were awarded and whether kickbacks were involved. Herrero remains under investigation as authorities continue to unravel the implications of his financial dealings with the accused firms, which may reflect broader systemic issues in public contracting.

The Koldo case is emblematic of the challenges faced in the fight against corruption in Spain, especially concerning public sector dealings. The ongoing investigation aims to restore public confidence in the integrity of public institutions and their representatives. With political ramifications and public interest at stake, this case highlights the need for increased scrutiny and reform in public procurement to prevent future malfeasance.

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