UCO investigates PSOE use of campaign funds for Crónica Libre

A report from the Civil Guard’s Central Operative Unit (UCO) has linked the PSOE’s 2024 European election campaign funds to the media outlet Crónica Libre, which is connected to the Leire Díez case. Mónica Hurtado, the accounts director of IKI Group—the agency managing the socialist party's campaigns—testified that approximately 20,000 euros were allocated to the outlet for advertising purposes.

Hurtado stated that these services appeared unjustified because the outlet is a small medium with minimal impact on such large-scale campaigns. While 20,000 euros were assigned, the net amount granted to the outlet was 14,980 euros, totaling 18,126 euros including VAT.

The investigation has drawn interest from the European Public Prosecutor's Office to determine if community funds were misappropriated. The payments occurred in May 2024, shortly after significant political developments involving the party leadership. Additionally, investigators are examining links to Sofía Puente, the sister of Óscar Puente, following notes found during the inquiry.