Uncovering Coded Language in Political Cash Handling: The Koldo García Case

The investigation into the Koldo García case, led by the Central Operational Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard, has unveiled a complex network of coded language used by individuals involved in illicit financial dealings. In a report submitted to the Supreme Court, investigators revealed that García and his ex-wife, Patricia Uriz, employed terms such as 'chistorras' for 500 euro bills, 'soles' for 200 euro bills, and 'lechugas' for 100 euro bills. This coded communication indicates a calculated effort to obscure the movement and existence of cash within their circle. Former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos was also implicated, as he utilized a modified vernacular when discussing financial matters with García. In their conversations, cash was referred to as 'folios' or 'boxes of folios,' emphasizing their intent to conceal these transactions. The report states that this linguistic strategy signifies not only deception but also a clear awareness of the illicit nature of their cash handling. According to the UCO, intercepted conversations suggest that payments were frequently made in cash, sometimes in envelopes collected directly from the headquarters of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) on Madrid's Ferraz Street. García and Uriz were tasked with consolidating these 'chistorras' and converting high-value bills into smaller denominations through an intermediary based in Navarra. One notable exchange between García and Uriz reveals a deeper layer of this coded approach. García humorously mentioned having 'a little joy' for the election day, which Uriz responded to with skepticism regarding their financial situation. In an astonishing calculation, investigators deduced that 2000 'chistorras' equated to 1 million euros, leading them to argue that each 'chistorra' represented 500 euros. It appears that their discussions frequently circled back to monetary value hidden within everyday conversations, masking potential wrongdoing. The UCO's report illustrates a web of communication filled with euphemisms and inside jokes that served to further obscure their financial activities. Messaging exchanges from 2019 to 2020 reveal recurring references to 'chistorras' as money. For instance, when García requested 3750 euros from Uriz, her immediate question was whether 'the chistorras count.' In another instance, Uriz carried 20 'chistorras'—another reference to 10,000 euros—during a visit to their Madrid apartment. These exchanges highlight both the technical aspect of their operations and the personal dynamic between García and Uriz, painting a picture of individuals who were not only enmeshed in considerable financial mismanagement but also deeply familiar with each other’s strategies. From concerns about transporting large sums to requests for cash, their messages reveal the lengths to which they went to maintain their covert financial activities. As the investigation progresses, the implications of their coded language extend beyond individual actions; they suggest a broader issue of fiscal integrity within political circles. The UCO’s findings raise poignant questions about transparency and accountability among public officials, especially as they grapple with allegations of corruption and financial impropriety. This case exemplifies the importance of vigilance in political finance and the necessity for clear regulations that can prevent the obfuscation of financial dealings under the guise of euphemistic language. The Koldo García case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in political finance. As authorities continue to unravel this intricate web of deception, it becomes increasingly clear that the language used—and the actions behind it—will play a pivotal role in determining accountability and justice. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2