An investigation into a Spanish visa scandal in Algeria has uncovered a previously unknown real estate portfolio. According to a report by the Spanish police's Economic and Fiscal Crime Unit, six properties were acquired in Algiers over five years. The total value of these properties is estimated to be around 783,919 euros. The report was made public by Amina Nessrine Beljoudi, the wife of a former Spanish diplomat, who disputes the findings.
The investigation, which began in the spring, suggests that the fraudulent practices may have started over a decade ago. The properties were purchased between 2016 and 2021. The report also mentions that the former Spanish chancellor, Vicente Moreno, and his wife own properties in Portugal. Additionally, Beljoudi had previously worked for the company BLS, which was responsible for handling visa applications.
The scandal involves several individuals, including former chancellor Vicente Moreno and an agent local, Mohamed Boutouchent. Moreno and his wife were arrested in Spain, while Beljoudi was also implicated. Three other individuals, Maua B., Hocine M., and Lylia D., who worked in the visa application process, were also charged. The investigation began after internal reports from the Spanish embassy in Algiers raised concerns about a scheme to sell Schengen visas.
According to the investigation, incomplete and sometimes falsified dossiers were able to pass through the consular channels. The cost of obtaining a visa was reportedly as high as 25,000 euros. The judge in charge of the case, María Tardón, also pointed to the responsibility of subcontracting companies, such as BLS, which handled visa applications and appointments.
BLS, an Indian company, had secured a 175-million-euro contract from the Spanish government in 2016 to handle visa applications in several regions, including North Africa. The company's involvement has raised concerns, given its history of controversy in India and the United States. Today, BLS remains a crucial part of the visa application process for Algerian applicants.
The investigation has revealed a complex web of corruption and deceit. The properties purchased in Algiers are valued at 120 million dinars. The scandal has led to the arrest of several individuals and raised questions about the integrity of the visa application process.
The Spanish government has taken steps to address the issue, including the repatriation of the former chancellor. The investigation is ongoing, and further charges may be brought. The case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the visa application process.
Key points
- Six properties worth 783,919 euros were purchased in Algiers over five years.
- The investigation suggests that the fraudulent practices may have started over a decade ago.
- Several individuals, including former chancellor Vicente Moreno, have been charged in connection with the scandal.
