Juan Carlos I, the former king of Spain returned to the country on Thursday (May 19) after an exile of two years. In 2020, he departed for Abu Dhabi in the aftermath of shocking financial scandals.&nbsp;

News agency AFP reported that Juan Carlos I arrived on a private jet in the northwestern city of Vigo. Pedro Campos, who is a long-time friend, revealed the expected itinerary to state broadcaster TVE.&nbsp;

Campos said that the former king will visit the city of Vigo on Spain's northwest coast on Thursday evening. After that, he will go to a nearby resort of Sanxenxo to participate in a sailing regatta.&nbsp;

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"He is very glad to come and be here to recover after two years away and do something he likes so much, which is sailing," Campos said, adding that the 84-year-old will sail on a ship adapted to his situation.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the king's official residence said in a statement that Juan Carlos will not stay in the Zarzuela Palace in Madrid.&nbsp;

After the probe into alleged financial fraud was opened, the former king left Spain for Abu Dhabi and keeps his permanent there. The investigations were opened in Spain and Switzerland.&nbsp;

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He had said that he would visit Spain frequently after prosecutors dropped the investigations.&nbsp;

The problems are not over yet, he might face trial in Britain in a harassment case.&nbsp;

The case was brought against him by his former lover Danish national Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Juan Carlos I, the former king of Spain returned to the country on Thursday (May 19) after an exile of two years. In 2020, he departed for Abu Dhabi in the aftermath of shocking financial scandals.

Juan Carlos I, the former king of Spain returned to the country on Thursday (May 19) after an exile of two years. In 2020, he departed for Abu Dhabi in the aftermath of shocking financial scandals. News agency AFP reported that Juan Carlos I arrived on a private jet in the northwestern city of Vigo. Pedro Campos, who is a long-time friend, revealed the expected itinerary to state broadcaster TVE. Campos said that the former king will visit the city of Vigo on Spain's northwest coast on Thursday evening. After that, he will go to a nearby resort of Sanxenxo to participate in a sailing regatta. ALSO READ | Former Italy PM Silvio Berlusconi accused of keeping 'sex slaves' at infamous 'bunga bunga' parties "He is very glad to come and be here to recover after two years away and do something he likes so much, which is sailing," Campos said, adding that the 84-year-old will sail on a ship adapted to his situation. Meanwhile, the king's official residence said in a statement that Juan Carlos will not stay in the Zarzuela Palace in Madrid. After the probe into alleged financial fraud was opened, the former king left Spain for Abu Dhabi and keeps his permanent there. The investigations were opened in Spain and Switzerland. ALSO READ | British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's pro-Brexit father Stanley becomes French He had said that he would visit Spain frequently after prosecutors dropped the investigations. The problems are not over yet, he might face trial in Britain in a harassment case. The case was brought against him by his former lover Danish national Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain's exiled ex-king Juan Carlos returns home after two years

Spain’s former king Juan Carlos was allegedly “injected with female hormones by Spanish secret service to control his rampant sex drive”, an ex-police chief has sensationally claimed.

Jose Manuel Villarejo, an ex-police commissioner currently on trial over blackmail allegations, told a parliamentary hearing on Wednesday that Spain’s National Intelligence Centre (CNI) had to administer the 83-year-old exiled monarch “female hormones and testosterone inhibitors to lower his libido.”

Giving reasons for the extreme action, Villarejo said Carlos’ sex drive was considered as “a problem for the state” because he was such an “ardently passionate person,” Spanish media reported.

During the hearing, the former police chief said he had been tasked to recover medical reports relating to scans that Juan Carlos had while he was undergoing treatment for a benign tumour.

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He said, “There were traces not of bromide (a sedative) but of testosterone inhibitors.”

The revelations come after a Spanish author and military historian Amadeo Martinez Ingles wrote a book entitled ‘Juan Carlos: The King Of 5,000 Lovers’, detailing evidence of his sexual history and describing the king as a "rampant sex addict".

It has been speculated that the former king has had intimate relations with over 5,000 women, including Danish-German philanthropist Corinna Larsen, Spanish singer Sara Montiel, Belgian governess Liliane Sartiau and Italian princess Maria Gabriela de Saboya, besides his wife, Queen Sofia.

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Villarejo’s trial opened this month, in which he is accused of having covertly recorded conversations with the elite for the purposes of blackmailing or ruining their reputation on behalf of other powerful clients.

He denied having any involvement in the effort to bring Juan Carlos’ notorious sex drive under control and said he found out about it from Corinna Larsen, a former lover of the ex-monarch now living in London.

The former king reigned from 1975 to 2014, but abdicated his throne for of his son. He fled Spain for Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, last year amid a multi-million dollar corruption scandal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Spain’s former king Juan Carlos was allegedly “injected with female hormones by Spanish secret service to control his rampant sex drive”, an ex-police chief has sensationally claimed.

Spain’s former king Juan Carlos was allegedly “injected with female hormones by Spanish secret service to control his rampant sex drive”, an ex-police chief has sensationally claimed. Jose Manuel Villarejo, an ex-police commissioner currently on trial over blackmail allegations, told a parliamentary hearing on Wednesday that Spain’s National Intelligence Centre (CNI) had to administer the 83-year-old exiled monarch “female hormones and testosterone inhibitors to lower his libido.” Giving reasons for the extreme action, Villarejo said Carlos’ sex drive was considered as “a problem for the state” because he was such an “ardently passionate person,” Spanish media reported. During the hearing, the former police chief said he had been tasked to recover medical reports relating to scans that Juan Carlos had while he was undergoing treatment for a benign tumour. Also read | Spain's former king Juan Carlos flees the country He said, “There were traces not of bromide (a sedative) but of testosterone inhibitors.” The revelations come after a Spanish author and military historian Amadeo Martinez Ingles wrote a book entitled ‘Juan Carlos: The King Of 5,000 Lovers’, detailing evidence of his sexual history and describing the king as a "rampant sex addict". It has been speculated that the former king has had intimate relations with over 5,000 women, including Danish-German philanthropist Corinna Larsen, Spanish singer Sara Montiel, Belgian governess Liliane Sartiau and Italian princess Maria Gabriela de Saboya, besides his wife, Queen Sofia. Also read | Spain's former king Juan Carlos has been in UAE since August 3 Villarejo’s trial opened this month, in which he is accused of having covertly recorded conversations with the elite for the purposes of blackmailing or ruining their reputation on behalf of other powerful clients. He denied having any involvement in the effort to bring Juan Carlos’ notorious sex drive under control and said he found out about it from Corinna Larsen, a former lover of the ex-monarch now living in London. The former king reigned from 1975 to 2014, but abdicated his throne for of his son. He fled Spain for Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, last year amid a multi-million dollar corruption scandal. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain’s former king Juan Carlos ‘injected with female hormones’ to control his sex drive: Ex-cop

Spain’s former King Juan Carlos has been accused of harassment and spying by his ex-lover in the latest twist in a financial scandal plaguing him.

The public relations firm representing Corinna Larsen, a Danish-German businesswoman long linked to Spain’s former king, confirmed Wednesday that she had asked a London court for a restraining order against Juan Carlos and compensation for damages for his alleged harassment.

Carlos, who left his homeland under a cloud of scandal in August last year, had&nbsp;settled a back tax bill worth over 678,000 euros ($817,871) including interest and fines.

The dramatic exit was designed to protect the monarchy after a barrage of corruption allegations surfaced against him.

The bombshell move stunned Spaniards and left them divided over whether the 82-year-old, who keeps the title of King Emeritus, was right to depart or should have stayed to face justice.

Juan Carlos came to the throne in 1975 after the death of General Francisco Franco and was widely respected for his role in helping guide Spain from dictatorship to democracy.

But his popularity sank in later years due to a series of scandals, prompting him to step down in 2014.

Switzerland’s La Tribune de Geneve newspaper reported in March that Juan Carlos had received $100 million from the late Saudi King over a high-speed rail contract.

That was followed by a regular drip-feed of allegations in the Spanish media, including that he gave much of the money to a former mistress.

Juan Carlos’ son, King Felipe, is the current head of state.

(With inputs from agencies)

Spain’s former King Juan Carlos has been accused of harassment and spying by his ex-lover in the latest twist in a financial scandal plaguing him. The public relations firm representing Corinna Larsen, a Danish-German businesswoman long linked to Spain’s former king, confirmed Wednesday that she had asked a London court for a restraining order against Juan Carlos and compensation for damages for his alleged harassment.

Spain’s former King Juan Carlos has been accused of harassment and spying by his ex-lover in the latest twist in a financial scandal plaguing him. The public relations firm representing Corinna Larsen, a Danish-German businesswoman long linked to Spain’s former king, confirmed Wednesday that she had asked a London court for a restraining order against Juan Carlos and compensation for damages for his alleged harassment. Carlos, who left his homeland under a cloud of scandal in August last year, had settled a back tax bill worth over 678,000 euros ($817,871) including interest and fines. The dramatic exit was designed to protect the monarchy after a barrage of corruption allegations surfaced against him. The bombshell move stunned Spaniards and left them divided over whether the 82-year-old, who keeps the title of King Emeritus, was right to depart or should have stayed to face justice. Juan Carlos came to the throne in 1975 after the death of General Francisco Franco and was widely respected for his role in helping guide Spain from dictatorship to democracy. But his popularity sank in later years due to a series of scandals, prompting him to step down in 2014. Switzerland’s La Tribune de Geneve newspaper reported in March that Juan Carlos had received $100 million from the late Saudi King over a high-speed rail contract. That was followed by a regular drip-feed of allegations in the Spanish media, including that he gave much of the money to a former mistress. Juan Carlos’ son, King Felipe, is the current head of state. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Spanish king Juan Carlos' ex-lover accuses him of harassment

Spain's former King Juan Carlos, who left the country in August amid a cloud of scandals, has settled a back tax bill worth more than four million euros ($4.9 million), El Pais and El Mundo reported on Friday.&nbsp;

It was the second such payment by the former monarch in recent months.&nbsp;

The tax settlement of 4 million euros was based on eight million euros worth of goods and services he received, the newspapers said. According to El Pais, the payment was to compensate for private flights from which he benefited.&nbsp;

In December, he paid the tax authorities more than 678,000 euros including interest and fines, which, according to El Pais, sought to settle alleged illegal credit card transactions with the revenue service to avoid being charged in an investigation and to be able to return to Spain.&nbsp;

Juan Carlos' lawyer was not immediately available for comment, while a palace spokesman declined to comment. Through his lawyers, he has over the past months repeatedly declined to comment on corruption allegations.&nbsp;

Prosecutors at Spain's Supreme Court have opened several investigations into Juan Carlos' business dealings, including those linked to a high-speed train contract in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

His son, King Felipe, is the current head of state. Spanish monarchs have immunity during their reign but Juan Carlos' abdication in 2014 in favour of his son potentially leaves him vulnerable to prosecution.&nbsp;

Asked about Juan Carlos, Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo said the government cannot comment on any citizen relationship with the tax authorities, but added, "No one is allowed to break the law. This comment is even more relevant today."&nbsp;

Alberto Garzon, consumer rights minister and member of leftist party Unidas Podemos, was more blunt, saying on Twitter, "It is striking how many surprises we are faced with every month with the obscure - and also illegal - financial movements made by the institution that should be the most scrutinised in the whole of democracy, as it is the most protected and privileged: the monarchy."&nbsp;

Juan Carlos has been living in United Arab Emirates since he left Spain. He played a key role in guiding Spain to democracy when he came to the throne after the death of right-wing dictator General Francisco Franco in 1975, but his popularity waned amid a series of financial and family scandals, leading to him stepping down.&nbsp;

(With Agency inputs)&nbsp;

Spain's former King Juan Carlos, who left the country in August amid a cloud of scandals, has settled a back tax bill worth more than four million euros ($4.9 million), El Pais and El Mundo reported on Friday.

Spain's former King Juan Carlos, who left the country in August amid a cloud of scandals, has settled a back tax bill worth more than four million euros ($4.9 million), El Pais and El Mundo reported on Friday. It was the second such payment by the former monarch in recent months. The tax settlement of 4 million euros was based on eight million euros worth of goods and services he received, the newspapers said. According to El Pais, the payment was to compensate for private flights from which he benefited. In December, he paid the tax authorities more than 678,000 euros including interest and fines, which, according to El Pais, sought to settle alleged illegal credit card transactions with the revenue service to avoid being charged in an investigation and to be able to return to Spain. Juan Carlos' lawyer was not immediately available for comment, while a palace spokesman declined to comment. Through his lawyers, he has over the past months repeatedly declined to comment on corruption allegations. Prosecutors at Spain's Supreme Court have opened several investigations into Juan Carlos' business dealings, including those linked to a high-speed train contract in Saudi Arabia. His son, King Felipe, is the current head of state. Spanish monarchs have immunity during their reign but Juan Carlos' abdication in 2014 in favour of his son potentially leaves him vulnerable to prosecution. Asked about Juan Carlos, Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo said the government cannot comment on any citizen relationship with the tax authorities, but added, "No one is allowed to break the law. This comment is even more relevant today." Alberto Garzon, consumer rights minister and member of leftist party Unidas Podemos, was more blunt, saying on Twitter, "It is striking how many surprises we are faced with every month with the obscure - and also illegal - financial movements made by the institution that should be the most scrutinised in the whole of democracy, as it is the most protected and privileged: the monarchy." Juan Carlos has been living in United Arab Emirates since he left Spain. He played a key role in guiding Spain to democracy when he came to the throne after the death of right-wing dictator General Francisco Franco in 1975, but his popularity waned amid a series of financial and family scandals, leading to him stepping down. (With Agency inputs)

Former Spain king pays 4 million euros in back taxes amid scandals

Spain's scandal-hit former king Juan Carlos I has submitted a declaration to the Spanish tax office seeking to put his financial situation in order, El Pais newspaper reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

The voluntary declaration was presented by his lawyer with sources telling the paper the move was in connection with an ongoing anti-graft investigation looking into his credit card use.&nbsp;

The legal probe was confirmed last month Spain's attorney general, with judicial sources telling AFP at the time they were looking at whether the former king used cards linked to accounts not registered in his name -- which could constitute a possible money-laundering offence.&nbsp;

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They said investigators were looking into funds deposited in at several Spanish bank accounts held by a Mexican business and a Spanish Air Force official, and whether they had been accessed by the former monarch.&nbsp;

Prosecutors had sent legal requests abroad to determine whether the monies deposited in the accounts had been hidden from the tax authorities.&nbsp;

If proven, the allegations could constitute a money laundering offence for which he could be prosecuted given that the movement of funds and use of the credit cards occurred after his abdication in June 2014.&nbsp;

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A spokesman for the Spanish tax office could not confirm or deny the El Pais report about the voluntary declaration. saying for legal reasons the agency could not comment on specific cases.&nbsp;

There was no response from the attorney's law firm.&nbsp;

El Pais said the treasury was analysing the document and would decide in the coming days whether it needed more information and what action to take.&nbsp;

The move came four months after the former head of state, who is also facing two other investigations into his finances, fled into self-imposed exile in the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

The first was opened two years ago with prosecutors examining a Saudi high-speed rail contract that was won by a consortium of Spanish companies in 2011, seeking to establish whether the then-monarch was paid a commission.&nbsp;

According to Swiss daily La Tribune, Saudi's late king Abdullah deposited $100 million into a Swiss private bank in 2008 to which Juan Carlos I had access, prompting suspicions it was a kickback for the contract which was awarded three years later.

The inquiry was triggered following revelations by the octagenarian's former mistress Corinna Larsen, with investigators in Spain and Switzerland now looking into his finances.&nbsp;

Spain's scandal-hit former king Juan Carlos I has submitted a declaration to the Spanish tax office seeking to put his financial situation in order, El Pais newspaper reported on Sunday.

Spain's scandal-hit former king Juan Carlos I has submitted a declaration to the Spanish tax office seeking to put his financial situation in order, El Pais newspaper reported on Sunday. The voluntary declaration was presented by his lawyer with sources telling the paper the move was in connection with an ongoing anti-graft investigation looking into his credit card use. The legal probe was confirmed last month Spain's attorney general, with judicial sources telling AFP at the time they were looking at whether the former king used cards linked to accounts not registered in his name -- which could constitute a possible money-laundering offence. Also read| Spain's former king Juan Carlos has been in UAE since August 3 They said investigators were looking into funds deposited in at several Spanish bank accounts held by a Mexican business and a Spanish Air Force official, and whether they had been accessed by the former monarch. Prosecutors had sent legal requests abroad to determine whether the monies deposited in the accounts had been hidden from the tax authorities. If proven, the allegations could constitute a money laundering offence for which he could be prosecuted given that the movement of funds and use of the credit cards occurred after his abdication in June 2014. Also read| Catalan parliament voices opinion against Juan Carlos' exile A spokesman for the Spanish tax office could not confirm or deny the El Pais report about the voluntary declaration. saying for legal reasons the agency could not comment on specific cases. There was no response from the attorney's law firm. El Pais said the treasury was analysing the document and would decide in the coming days whether it needed more information and what action to take. The move came four months after the former head of state, who is also facing two other investigations into his finances, fled into self-imposed exile in the United Arab Emirates. The first was opened two years ago with prosecutors examining a Saudi high-speed rail contract that was won by a consortium of Spanish companies in 2011, seeking to establish whether the then-monarch was paid a commission. According to Swiss daily La Tribune, Saudi's late king Abdullah deposited $100 million into a Swiss private bank in 2008 to which Juan Carlos I had access, prompting suspicions it was a kickback for the contract which was awarded three years later. The inquiry was triggered following revelations by the octagenarian's former mistress Corinna Larsen, with investigators in Spain and Switzerland now looking into his finances.

Spain ex-king submits papers to sort out tax affairs: Report

Former Spanish king Juan Carlos is reportedly in the United Arab Emirates, where had been staying since August 3 after leaving Spain in the aftermath of a corruption scandal.

The detail was divulged by a spokesperson for the royal household on Monday, first reported by state network TVE.

"That is what King Juan Carlos has told us”, the royal household’s spokesperson said while alluding to reports of him being in the UAE.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/catalan-parliament-voices-opinion-against-juan-carlos-exile-318994" hreflang="en">Catalan parliament voices opinion against Juan Carlos' exile</a>

Asked on Monday whether the TVE report was correct, a spokesman for the royal household said: "That is what King Juan Carlos has told us”, the royal household’s spokesperson said while alluding to reports of him being in the UAE.

The royal palace said that Carlos was leaving the country to allow his son Felipe to act as king, devoid of his interference, especially due to the corruption scandal. At the same time, the palace hadn’t announced where the 82-year-old former king was headed.

Bribe allegations

Recently, Spanish and Swiss authorities started looking at allegations of bribing involved in a high-speed railway project’s contract.

In terms of the bribing allegations, the ex-king has rejected all such allegations.&nbsp;Carlos was an important player in Spain’s transition to democracy, after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/spains-ex-king-juan-carlos-is-in-abu-dhabi-media-reports-318844" hreflang="en">Spain's ex-king Juan Carlos is in Abu Dhabi: Media reports</a>

Protests had erupted over the sudden exit of Carlos, one protester told Reuters it was a “rash decision”. "I think it is a bit of a rash decision because he should be judged like any other Spanish citizen," Pablo Lopez said outside the Royal Palace.

Currently, prosecutors in Switzerland and Spain are investigating cases of potential bribes covering offshore accounts.

Even though there are allegations against him, no formal investigation has been launched which implies that he is not technically a fugitive.

Former Spanish king Juan Carlos is reportedly in the United Arab Emirates, where had been staying since August 3 after leaving Spain in the aftermath of a corruption scandal.

Former Spanish king Juan Carlos is reportedly in the United Arab Emirates, where had been staying since August 3 after leaving Spain in the aftermath of a corruption scandal. The detail was divulged by a spokesperson for the royal household on Monday, first reported by state network TVE. "That is what King Juan Carlos has told us”, the royal household’s spokesperson said while alluding to reports of him being in the UAE. Also read: Catalan parliament voices opinion against Juan Carlos' exile Asked on Monday whether the TVE report was correct, a spokesman for the royal household said: "That is what King Juan Carlos has told us”, the royal household’s spokesperson said while alluding to reports of him being in the UAE. The royal palace said that Carlos was leaving the country to allow his son Felipe to act as king, devoid of his interference, especially due to the corruption scandal. At the same time, the palace hadn’t announced where the 82-year-old former king was headed. Bribe allegations Recently, Spanish and Swiss authorities started looking at allegations of bribing involved in a high-speed railway project’s contract. In terms of the bribing allegations, the ex-king has rejected all such allegations. Carlos was an important player in Spain’s transition to democracy, after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975. Also read: Spain's ex-king Juan Carlos is in Abu Dhabi: Media reports Protests had erupted over the sudden exit of Carlos, one protester told Reuters it was a “rash decision”. "I think it is a bit of a rash decision because he should be judged like any other Spanish citizen," Pablo Lopez said outside the Royal Palace. Currently, prosecutors in Switzerland and Spain are investigating cases of potential bribes covering offshore accounts. Even though there are allegations against him, no formal investigation has been launched which implies that he is not technically a fugitive.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has been in UAE since August 3

Catalonia's regional parliament has passed a non-binding motion voicing its concerns against the monarchy after Spain's former king Juan Carlos disappeared amid various scandals.

The three separatists parties have denied to recognize&nbsp;King Felipe VI, the serving monarch as a leader. The parties&nbsp;voted in favor of the motion which criticises&nbsp;the decision of Juan Carlos to go into exile without any discussions, especially amid controversies.

The representatives passed a proposal of&nbsp;“Catalonia is a republic and does not want a king” by 69 votes in favor and 65 against.

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“Neither Spaniards nor Catalans deserve such a loud and ridiculous scandal on an international scale,” Catalan leader Quim Torra told the regional parliament in a special session that he called to discuss the monarchy.

the 82-year-old left the country few days ago to an undisclosed location, and since then the Spanish and international media has been guessing his location — some of which have been&nbsp;Portugal, the Dominican Republic and Abu Dhabi. The only confirmed thing till now is that the ex-Spanish monarch left the country on a private jet on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-former-king-juan-carlos-flees-the-country-318186">Also read|&nbsp;Spain's former king Juan Carlos flees the country</a>

“We Catalans do not have a king and we do not want one,” Torra said. “What authority will we have to enforce the rules against corruption if we accept a royal family that escapes when they are investigated after taking millions and millions of euros in terrible business commissions?”

Catalans have been looking for an opportunity to establish Catalonia Republic, and this has provided them with one of the best times to voice their opinion.&nbsp;

Juan Carlos had been under fire in Spain and Switzerland over suspicions surrounding a multi-billion high-speed Saudi train contract won by Spanish firms, all of the allegations that had been declined by Carlos' representative.

Catalonia's regional parliament has passed a non-binding motion voicing its concerns against the monarchy after Spain's former king Juan Carlos disappeared amid various scandals.

Catalonia's regional parliament has passed a non-binding motion voicing its concerns against the monarchy after Spain's former king Juan Carlos disappeared amid various scandals. The three separatists parties have denied to recognize King Felipe VI, the serving monarch as a leader. The parties voted in favor of the motion which criticises the decision of Juan Carlos to go into exile without any discussions, especially amid controversies. The representatives passed a proposal of “Catalonia is a republic and does not want a king” by 69 votes in favor and 65 against. Also read| Spain's ex-king Juan Carlos is in Abu Dhabi: Media reports “Neither Spaniards nor Catalans deserve such a loud and ridiculous scandal on an international scale,” Catalan leader Quim Torra told the regional parliament in a special session that he called to discuss the monarchy. the 82-year-old left the country few days ago to an undisclosed location, and since then the Spanish and international media has been guessing his location — some of which have been Portugal, the Dominican Republic and Abu Dhabi. The only confirmed thing till now is that the ex-Spanish monarch left the country on a private jet on Monday. Also read| Spain's former king Juan Carlos flees the country “We Catalans do not have a king and we do not want one,” Torra said. “What authority will we have to enforce the rules against corruption if we accept a royal family that escapes when they are investigated after taking millions and millions of euros in terrible business commissions?” Catalans have been looking for an opportunity to establish Catalonia Republic, and this has provided them with one of the best times to voice their opinion. Juan Carlos had been under fire in Spain and Switzerland over suspicions surrounding a multi-billion high-speed Saudi train contract won by Spanish firms, all of the allegations that had been declined by Carlos' representative.

Catalan parliament voices opinion against Juan Carlos' exile

Former Spanish king Juan Carlos has been staying at Abu Dhabi`s exclusive Emirates Palace Hotel since leaving Spain aboard a private jet on Monday under a cloud of financial scandal involving Saudi Arabia, newspaper ABC said on Friday.

United Arab Emirates officials and the Emirates Palace Hotel did not immediately respond to requests for comment. 
Dogged by mounting corruption allegations, Juan Carlos, 82, abruptly announced his decision to leave Spain on Monday but there has been no official confirmation of his whereabouts, setting off an international guessing game.

ABC said a private plane en route from Paris to Abu Dhabi stopped off in the northwestern Spanish city of Vigo to pick up Juan Carlos, four security guards and one other person on Monday morning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-former-king-juan-carlos-is-currently-in-dominican-republic-reports-318110">Also read|&nbsp;Spain's former king Juan Carlos is currently in Dominican Republic: Reports</a>

Upon arrival at Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen airport, the ex-king and his entourage were flown by helicopter to the government-owned Hotel Emirates Palace, according to ABC, a pro-monarchy Spanish daily.

A palace spokesman said he did not know where Juan Carlos was. The former king`s lawyer did not immediately reply to a request for comment. His lawyer, the royal palace and the government have all declined to say where Juan Carlos is.

Some media have speculated Juan Carlos is in a luxury resort in the Dominican Republic and others place him in Portugal, where he spent much of his youth. But officials in both countries have said they have no knowledge of him arriving.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-former-king-juan-carlos-flees-the-country-318186">Also read:&nbsp;Spain's former king Juan Carlos flees the country</a>

In June, Spain`s Supreme Court opened a preliminary investigation into Juan Carlos` involvement in a high-speed rail contract in Saudi Arabia, after Switzerland`s La Tribune de Geneve newspaper reported he had received $100 million from the late Saudi king. Switzerland has also opened an investigation.

The former monarch is not formally under investigation and has repeatedly declined to comment on the allegations. 
The lawyer said on Monday his client was at the Spanish prosecutor`s disposal despite his decision to leave.

Spain and Abu Dhabi have an extradition agreement, signed by Juan Carlos himself in 2010.

Former Spanish king Juan Carlos has been staying at Abu Dhabi`s exclusive Emirates Palace Hotel since leaving Spain aboard a private jet on Monday under a cloud of financial scandal involving Saudi Arabia, newspaper ABC said on Friday.

Former Spanish king Juan Carlos has been staying at Abu Dhabi`s exclusive Emirates Palace Hotel since leaving Spain aboard a private jet on Monday under a cloud of financial scandal involving Saudi Arabia, newspaper ABC said on Friday. United Arab Emirates officials and the Emirates Palace Hotel did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Dogged by mounting corruption allegations, Juan Carlos, 82, abruptly announced his decision to leave Spain on Monday but there has been no official confirmation of his whereabouts, setting off an international guessing game. ABC said a private plane en route from Paris to Abu Dhabi stopped off in the northwestern Spanish city of Vigo to pick up Juan Carlos, four security guards and one other person on Monday morning. Also read| Spain's former king Juan Carlos is currently in Dominican Republic: Reports Upon arrival at Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen airport, the ex-king and his entourage were flown by helicopter to the government-owned Hotel Emirates Palace, according to ABC, a pro-monarchy Spanish daily. A palace spokesman said he did not know where Juan Carlos was. The former king`s lawyer did not immediately reply to a request for comment. His lawyer, the royal palace and the government have all declined to say where Juan Carlos is. Some media have speculated Juan Carlos is in a luxury resort in the Dominican Republic and others place him in Portugal, where he spent much of his youth. But officials in both countries have said they have no knowledge of him arriving. Also read: Spain's former king Juan Carlos flees the country In June, Spain`s Supreme Court opened a preliminary investigation into Juan Carlos` involvement in a high-speed rail contract in Saudi Arabia, after Switzerland`s La Tribune de Geneve newspaper reported he had received $100 million from the late Saudi king. Switzerland has also opened an investigation. The former monarch is not formally under investigation and has repeatedly declined to comment on the allegations. The lawyer said on Monday his client was at the Spanish prosecutor`s disposal despite his decision to leave. Spain and Abu Dhabi have an extradition agreement, signed by Juan Carlos himself in 2010.

Spain's ex-king Juan Carlos is in Abu Dhabi: Media reports

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has fled the country. A cloud of scandal hovers over the once popular, but divisive figure. He is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption.

In a letter to his son King Felipe VI, he said it is time to go into exile outside Spain. The entire country is gripped by shock and speculation.

Some claim he went to his childhood house in Portugal, before taking the flight to the Dominican Republic.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ex-spain-king-goes-into-exile-escapes-graft-probe-318193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Nobody knows where he is, but no doubts remain over why he left. In 2008, 100 million dollars were secretly transferred into one of his Swiss bank accounts. A gift from the late Saudi King Abdullah.

The scandal came to light after a former mistress of Juan Carlos spilt the beans to the media. She said Carlos received the money as commission.

A consortium of Spanish companies was awarded a high-speed railway contract.

This was to link the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

As a former king -- Juan Carlos enjoys no immunity against these allegations. Only the king -- the head of state -- gets constitutional protection in Spain.

In 2014, he vacated the throne for his son, King Felipe, who has distanced himself from his father's affairs. He not only renounced his father's inheritance but also withdrew the annual royal allowance.

The rule of Juan Carlos ended with scandals. His daughter and son-in-law faced a corruption investigation. And, a controversial elephant hunting trip to Botswana during Spain's financial crisis sparked public anger.

Juan Carlos took the throne in 1975 after the death of General Francisco Franco. Under Franco, Spain suffered the ills of dictatorship.

But, Carlos guided Spain to democracy. A new system of parliamentary monarchy.

Carlos even dismantled an attempted coup in 1981. In Spain, King Juan Carlos will still be a historical figure.

But, not one who will be remembered kindly.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has fled the country. A cloud of scandal hovers over the once popular, but divisive figure. He is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has fled the country. A cloud of scandal hovers over the once popular, but divisive figure. He is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption. In a letter to his son King Felipe VI, he said it is time to go into exile outside Spain. The entire country is gripped by shock and speculation. Some claim he went to his childhood house in Portugal, before taking the flight to the Dominican Republic. Nobody knows where he is, but no doubts remain over why he left. In 2008, 100 million dollars were secretly transferred into one of his Swiss bank accounts. A gift from the late Saudi King Abdullah. The scandal came to light after a former mistress of Juan Carlos spilt the beans to the media. She said Carlos received the money as commission. A consortium of Spanish companies was awarded a high-speed railway contract. This was to link the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. As a former king -- Juan Carlos enjoys no immunity against these allegations. Only the king -- the head of state -- gets constitutional protection in Spain. In 2014, he vacated the throne for his son, King Felipe, who has distanced himself from his father's affairs. He not only renounced his father's inheritance but also withdrew the annual royal allowance. The rule of Juan Carlos ended with scandals. His daughter and son-in-law faced a corruption investigation. And, a controversial elephant hunting trip to Botswana during Spain's financial crisis sparked public anger. Juan Carlos took the throne in 1975 after the death of General Francisco Franco. Under Franco, Spain suffered the ills of dictatorship. But, Carlos guided Spain to democracy. A new system of parliamentary monarchy. Carlos even dismantled an attempted coup in 1981. In Spain, King Juan Carlos will still be a historical figure. But, not one who will be remembered kindly.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos flees the country

The former King of Spain Juan Carlos has gone into exile. It's a scandalous escape. He is facing probe for allegedly taking a bribe from the ex-Saudi King Adbullah. It's a humiliating fall for the man who turned Spain into a democracy. WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Ex-Spain King goes into exile, Escapes graft probe

Spain's former king Juan Carlos has decided to leave his country, a dramatic exit designed to protect the monarchy after a barrage of corruption allegations

Former King Juan Carlos to leave spain amid graft probe

Spain's former king Juan Carlos, who is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption, announced Monday that he will go into exile.

The 82-year-old revealed he would leave the country in a letter to his son, the current King Felipe VI who accepted his decision and thanked him, the royal palace said in a statement.

"Guided by the conviction to best serve the people of Spain, its institutions, and you as king, I inform you of my decision at this time to go into exile outside Spain," Juan Carlos wrote.

"It's a decision I take with deep anguish, but great peace of mind," he added. He did not say where he would go.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-safe-for-tourists-despite-covid-19-cases-spike-reassures-government-316590">Also read:&nbsp;Spain 'safe' for tourists despite COVID-19 cases spike, reassures government</a>

Probes are under way in Switzerland and Spain where media regularly publish details of the murky management of funds allegedly paid to the former head of state by Saudi Arabia.

Spain's Supreme Court announced in June an investigation to determine the legal responsibility of the ex-monarch -- but because of the immunity he holds only for acts committed after his abdication.

The suspicions focus on $100 million (85 million euros) alleged to have been paid secretly into a Swiss bank account in 2008.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-voices-great-concern-at-virus-spike-issues-spain-warning-316464">Also read:&nbsp;Germany voices 'great concern' at virus spike, issues Spain warning</a>

After a series of media revelations, Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez spoke out in July saying "the entire Spanish population are receiving disturbing information which is troubling for us all, including me".

The ex-king's lawyer Javier Sanchez-Junco, issued a statement Monday saying his client was not trying to escape justice by going into exile and would remain available to prosecutors.

- Popular for decades - 
Juan Carlos ascended the throne in 1975 on the death of the fascist dictator Francisco Franco and ruled for 38 years before abdicating in favour of his son Felipe VI in June 2014.

He was a popular figure for decades, playing a key role in the democratic transition from the Franco dictatorship which ruled Spain from 1939-1975.

The Royal House website, which published the letter, noted that Felipe wanted to stress the historic importance" of his father's reign "in the service of Spain and democracy".&nbsp;

An inquiry opened in Spain in September 2018 following the publication of records attributed to German businesswoman Corinna Larsen, allegedly a former mistress of Juan Carlos.

She claimed he had received a commission when a consortium of Spanish companies were awarded a high-speed railway contract to link the Muslim holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.

Larsen told Swiss investigators he had transferred her nearly 65 million euros in the Bahamas, "not to get rid of the money" but "out of gratitude and out of love", according to El Pais daily.

Swiss media reported last March that Juan Carlos was paid 100 million dollars into a Panamanian foundation's Swiss bank account by late Saudi king Abdullah in 2008.

The same month The Daily Telegraph in Britain reported that Felipe VI was also a beneficiary of the foundation.

The king withdrew from his father an annual royal allowance of nearly 200,000 euros and renounced his inheritance "to preserve the exemplariness of the crown".

Online outlet El Espanol reported that Swiss lawyer Dante Canonica told the Geneva public prosecutor's office he had been instructed to "create a structure" to hide the funds paid to Juan Carlos.

"Wherever he goes, he will have to pay for what he has done," said 33-year-old publicist Inigo Inchaurraga, who was out walking his dog in Madrid.

"It's a shame because he did a lot for Spain, but it is clear that at some time in his career he turned corrupt."

Spain's former king Juan Carlos, who is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption, announced Monday that he will go into exile. The 82-year-old revealed he would leave the country in a letter to his son, the current King Felipe VI who accepted his decision and thanked him, the royal palace said in a statement.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos, who is facing investigation at home and abroad for corruption, announced Monday that he will go into exile. The 82-year-old revealed he would leave the country in a letter to his son, the current King Felipe VI who accepted his decision and thanked him, the royal palace said in a statement. "Guided by the conviction to best serve the people of Spain, its institutions, and you as king, I inform you of my decision at this time to go into exile outside Spain," Juan Carlos wrote. "It's a decision I take with deep anguish, but great peace of mind," he added. He did not say where he would go. Also read: Spain 'safe' for tourists despite COVID-19 cases spike, reassures government Probes are under way in Switzerland and Spain where media regularly publish details of the murky management of funds allegedly paid to the former head of state by Saudi Arabia. Spain's Supreme Court announced in June an investigation to determine the legal responsibility of the ex-monarch -- but because of the immunity he holds only for acts committed after his abdication. The suspicions focus on $100 million (85 million euros) alleged to have been paid secretly into a Swiss bank account in 2008. Also read: Germany voices 'great concern' at virus spike, issues Spain warning After a series of media revelations, Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez spoke out in July saying "the entire Spanish population are receiving disturbing information which is troubling for us all, including me". The ex-king's lawyer Javier Sanchez-Junco, issued a statement Monday saying his client was not trying to escape justice by going into exile and would remain available to prosecutors. - Popular for decades - Juan Carlos ascended the throne in 1975 on the death of the fascist dictator Francisco Franco and ruled for 38 years before abdicating in favour of his son Felipe VI in June 2014. He was a popular figure for decades, playing a key role in the democratic transition from the Franco dictatorship which ruled Spain from 1939-1975. The Royal House website, which published the letter, noted that Felipe wanted to stress the historic importance" of his father's reign "in the service of Spain and democracy". An inquiry opened in Spain in September 2018 following the publication of records attributed to German businesswoman Corinna Larsen, allegedly a former mistress of Juan Carlos. She claimed he had received a commission when a consortium of Spanish companies were awarded a high-speed railway contract to link the Muslim holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. Larsen told Swiss investigators he had transferred her nearly 65 million euros in the Bahamas, "not to get rid of the money" but "out of gratitude and out of love", according to El Pais daily. Swiss media reported last March that Juan Carlos was paid 100 million dollars into a Panamanian foundation's Swiss bank account by late Saudi king Abdullah in 2008. The same month The Daily Telegraph in Britain reported that Felipe VI was also a beneficiary of the foundation. The king withdrew from his father an annual royal allowance of nearly 200,000 euros and renounced his inheritance "to preserve the exemplariness of the crown". Online outlet El Espanol reported that Swiss lawyer Dante Canonica told the Geneva public prosecutor's office he had been instructed to "create a structure" to hide the funds paid to Juan Carlos. "Wherever he goes, he will have to pay for what he has done," said 33-year-old publicist Inigo Inchaurraga, who was out walking his dog in Madrid. "It's a shame because he did a lot for Spain, but it is clear that at some time in his career he turned corrupt."

Spain's ex-king Juan Carlos heads for exile under corruption cloud

Juan Carlos, the former king of Spain is reportedly in the Dominican Republic after leaving his country due to a corruption scandal, according to Spanish newspapers.

The royal palace said that Carlos was leaving the country to allow his son Felipe to act as king, devoid of his interference, especially due to the corruption scandal. At the same time, the palace hadn’t announced where the 82-year-old former king was headed.

Bribe allegations

Recently, Spanish and Swiss authorities started looking at allegations of bribing involved in a high-speed railway project’s contract.

According to La Vanguardia, a Spanish publication, the King Emeritus left the palace on Sunday, after which he travelled to Portugal in a car. From there, he flew to the Dominican Republic. ABC newspaper also claimed that the ex-king had flown to the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/spains-ex-king-juan-carlos-heads-for-exile-under-corruption-cloud-317966" hreflang="en">Spain's ex-king Juan Carlos heads for exile under corruption cloud</a>

He is slated to live with a family with sugar plantations, before he will head to a new destination.&nbsp;According to Carlos’ lawyer, he “would remain at the disposal of the prosecutors’ office”.&nbsp;No official comment has come in from the current whereabouts of the former from the Royal House.

In terms of the bribing allegations, the ex-king has rejected all such allegations.&nbsp;Carlos was an important player in Spain’s transition to democracy, after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

Protests have erupted

Protests have erupted over the sudden exit of Carlos, one protester told Reuters it was a “rash decision”. "I think it is a bit of a rash decision because he should be judged like any other Spanish citizen," Pablo Lopez said outside the Royal Palace.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/former-king-juan-carlos-to-leave-spain-amid-graft-probe-318036/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

More speculations have been flowing in about the king’s whereabouts, with a Portuguese channel TVI24 and Correio da Manha tabloid running stories of him being in a resort near Lisbon, in Cascais, where he spent his childhood.

Currently, prosecutors in Switzerland and Spain are investigating cases of potential bribes covering offshore accounts.

Even though there are allegations against him, no formal investigation has been launched which implies that he is not technically a fugitive.

Juan Carlos, the former king of Spain is reportedly in the Dominican Republic after leaving his country due to a corruption scandal, according to Spanish newspapers.

Juan Carlos, the former king of Spain is reportedly in the Dominican Republic after leaving his country due to a corruption scandal, according to Spanish newspapers. The royal palace said that Carlos was leaving the country to allow his son Felipe to act as king, devoid of his interference, especially due to the corruption scandal. At the same time, the palace hadn’t announced where the 82-year-old former king was headed. Bribe allegations Recently, Spanish and Swiss authorities started looking at allegations of bribing involved in a high-speed railway project’s contract. According to La Vanguardia, a Spanish publication, the King Emeritus left the palace on Sunday, after which he travelled to Portugal in a car. From there, he flew to the Dominican Republic. ABC newspaper also claimed that the ex-king had flown to the country. Also read: Spain's ex-king Juan Carlos heads for exile under corruption cloud He is slated to live with a family with sugar plantations, before he will head to a new destination. According to Carlos’ lawyer, he “would remain at the disposal of the prosecutors’ office”. No official comment has come in from the current whereabouts of the former from the Royal House. In terms of the bribing allegations, the ex-king has rejected all such allegations. Carlos was an important player in Spain’s transition to democracy, after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975. Protests have erupted Protests have erupted over the sudden exit of Carlos, one protester told Reuters it was a “rash decision”. "I think it is a bit of a rash decision because he should be judged like any other Spanish citizen," Pablo Lopez said outside the Royal Palace. More speculations have been flowing in about the king’s whereabouts, with a Portuguese channel TVI24 and Correio da Manha tabloid running stories of him being in a resort near Lisbon, in Cascais, where he spent his childhood. Currently, prosecutors in Switzerland and Spain are investigating cases of potential bribes covering offshore accounts. Even though there are allegations against him, no formal investigation has been launched which implies that he is not technically a fugitive.

Spain's former king Juan Carlos is currently in Dominican Republic: Reports

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