European Prosecutor's Office operation for "possible fraud" in Madrid-Seville AVE contracts

The European Public Prosecutor's Office is conducting an operation with the UCO regarding potential fraud involving European funds in ADIF contracts linked to the Urda train accident. Investigators are collecting documentation from ADIF, AESF, and the Court of Auditors. This follows a previous investigation into contracts aimed at improving safety and communication systems on the Madrid-Sevilla high-speed rail line. The investigation was initiated after the October 28 accident that resulted in 69 fatalities, paralleling a similar inquiry after the Adamuz accident in January. Contracts worth over 136 million euros were awarded for upgrades, including the ERTMS system and safety installations, funded by Next Generation EU funds.