Andorra in the spotlight of the Spanish Congress
Today, the focus of attention in the Spanish Congress of Deputies is on Andorra, with the start of a parliamentary commission of inquiry into the so-called ‘Operation Catalonia’. This investigation examines the actions of the Ministry of the Interior during the governments of the Popular Party, analyzing the alleged irregularities involving senior police officers in a parapolice plot.
Key questions by Marcelino Martín-Blas
Today’s session includes the interrogation of retired commissioner Marcelino Martín-Blas, who headed the Internal Affairs Unit between 2012 and 2015. This officer played an essential role in the operation that culminated with the intervention of the Banca Privada d’Andorra (BPA) in March 2015, coinciding with his controversial meetings with Joan Pau Miquel, former CEO of the BPA.
Threats and blackmail
In the meetings at the Villa Magna hotel in Madrid, Martín-Blas, known by the alias of ‘Fèlix’, pressed Joan Pau Miquel to obtain information on bank accounts of prominent figures of Catalan independence, including members of the Pujol family. His justified demand, according to him, was based on a ‘war’ against Catalan independence.
The repercussions of the revelations
Martín-Blas’ threats included warnings about the possibility of the Bank of Spain revoking the authorization of Banco Madrid, a subsidiary of the BPA. This situation caused a great impact on Miquel, who, according to sources, was coerced into breaking banking secrecy.
Confessions and scandals
On July 7, 2014, a report by El Mundo newspaper revealed bank statements of the Pujol family, revealing that they had kept €3.4 million in BPA. This exhibition triggered a chain reaction that led Jordi Pujol to confess the existence of a hidden fortune, causing a political and judicial scandal that affected his family.
A premeditated failure
Despite the efforts of Martín-Blas and his team, the investigation did not reveal the alleged hidden funds of the Pujols, or of the other pro-independence leaders. The publication of the FinCEN ‘notice’ in March 2015 led to the intervention of the BPA and Banco Madrid, confirming that there was no more money hidden.
The context of the Andorran complaint
The situation has led to the filing of a complaint in Andorra against Martín-Blas and other senior officials, including Mariano Rajoy, for blackmail and coercion. This legal action is supported by the Institute of Human Rights of Andorra and the entity Drets, and underlines the seriousness of the accusations surrounding the operation.
Upcoming appearances and expectations
In the coming days, Inspector Celestino Barroso, another of those involved, will be summoned to testify before the commission of inquiry. His statement promises to shed more light on the controversial police actions and the true dimension of this scandal that has shaken both Andorra and Spain.
