José Luis Ábalos, ex-Transport minister, sentenced to 24 years by Spain's Supreme Court

Spain's Supreme Court sentenced former transport minister José Luis Ábalos to 24 years in prison for offences including criminal organization, bribery and embezzlement linked to the so‑called mask scandal. Co‑defendant Koldo García received 19 years. The court also confirmed that businessman Víctor de Aldama had defrauded the tax authority of more than €182 million; he avoided a prison term and had part of his fine waived.

Ábalos announced he will appeal the verdict, calling it a grave violation of his rights. His ex‑wife, Carolina Perles, discussed the ruling on a televised programme, describing the emotional impact on their children. Ábalos' current partner, Andrea, has publicly exchanged hostile messages with Perles, adding a personal dimension to the high‑profile case.