EU launches investigation into Spain’s rail finances following deadly crash

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) conducted searches on Friday at the headquarters of Adif, the railway infrastructure manager; the State Railway Safety Agency (AESF); and the Court of Auditors in Spain. These actions are focused on examining possible irregularities in the funding of the Madrid-Seville high-speed rail line.

“Today, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in Madrid (Spain) is conducting investigative measures at the Administrator of Railway Infrastructure (ADIF), the State Railway Safety Agency (AESF) and the Court of Auditors in Spain,” a statement from the EPPO confirmed. The investigation centers on potential fraud involving EU funds allocated to the renovation and upgrades of safety, signaling, and communication systems along the Madrid-Seville line.

Adif acknowledged the EPPO’s visit to Reuters, stating their full cooperation in providing requested information. The AESF and the Court of Auditors have not yet responded to requests for comment.

The October 28th collision in Urda, Toledo province, marked the second fatal train crash in Spain this year and prompted the resignation of Transport Minister Oscar Puente.

A previous probe into the Spanish rail network was initiated by the EPPO in March, following a January crash in the Adamuz region that claimed 46 lives. The status of that investigation remains unchanged, focusing on the use of EU funds for track maintenance.

EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas voiced concern regarding the close proximity of the two accidents, describing the situation as “very worrying.” Spain has engaged the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) to assist with a national investigation.

Puente resigned on Tuesday, citing “political dignity,” and Adif President Luis Pedro Marco de la Pena followed suit the following day. Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo will temporarily assume Puente’s responsibilities until Spain’s elections later this month, which may be impacted by the recent tragedy.

Survivors of three of Spain’s most devastating train crashes convened at the end of October to advocate for improved safety protocols and increased investment in network maintenance. Cristobal Gonzalez, a survivor of a previous crash, stated to Al Jazeera, “Now we have seen three dreadful crashes in Spain, at Angrois, Adamuz and Urda. They will keep happening if we do not act.”

The Angrois accident in 2013, which resulted in 79 deaths, stands as the most severe rail disaster in recent Spanish history.