European Prosecutors Investigate Spanish Rail Authority Over Urda Disaster Funds

The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) has launched an investigation into alleged fraud concerning EU funds allocated for upgrades to a Spanish railway line. The inquiry focuses on Spain's rail infrastructure manager, Adif, and its former president, Gonzalo Ferre.

The investigation is specifically linked to the Urda railway line in Galicia, which was the site of a fatal train derailment in 2013, claiming 69 lives. Prosecutors are examining whether EU cohesion funds intended for safety improvements on the line were improperly managed or misused.

Sources indicate that the EPPO's interest stems from discrepancies identified in how the project was executed and certified. This development underscores persistent concerns regarding the oversight of European Union financial contributions to large-scale infrastructure projects within member states, particularly where public safety is a factor. Adif and Mr Ferre have not yet commented publicly on the ongoing investigation.