Investigating judge Jose Luis Calama ordered the probe after the items were seized on May 19, noting a complete absence of customs documentation or evidence that import duties were paid. The discovery complicates the legal standing of the former Socialist leader, who is currently fighting broader allegations of corruption, influence-peddling, and money laundering.

Zapatero, who governed Spain from 2004 to 2011, denies all wrongdoing. His spokesperson, Luis Arroyo, confirmed via social media that the former prime minister intends to address the jewellery matter directly before the court. Zapatero is scheduled to testify on June 17 and 18 regarding the main corruption case, which centers on claims that he led a network profiting from lobbying public authorities, including the 2021 state bailout of the airline Plus Ultra. His legal team has yet to provide further comment on the new findings.