SEPI chief Belén Gualda indicted in Leire Díez corruption probe

Judge Santiago Pedraz of the Audiencia Nacional has indicted Belén Gualda, president of the state‑owned holding SEPI, and 24 other public officials and business figures for alleged influence‑peddling, misappropriation and prevarication linked to the “Leire Díez” case. The indictment covers suspected irregularities in contracts and rescue operations for companies such as Tubos Reunidos, Mercasa, Enusa, Forestalia and the naval group Navantia. Investigators allege a coordinated pattern of using privileged information to steer public aid and procurement in favour of a private network centred on former activist Leire Díez and party operative Santos Cerdán.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Finance Minister Arcadi España publicly reiterated their confidence in Gualda, describing her work as “professional” and highlighting SEPI’s recent financial results – a €130 million profit and a record €7.384 billion turnover, supported by dividends from Airbus, Indra, Enagás and other holdings. SEPI also reported a projected €2 billion increase in Navantia revenues after the acquisition of Harland & Wolf assets.

The investigation has also implicated former SEPI presidents, ex‑executives of Mercasa, Enusa and other state‑linked firms, and has led the judge to order the return of a recorder used by whistle‑blower prosecutor Ignacio Stampa. The case underscores broader concerns about alleged corruption within Spain’s public‑investment ecosystem.