Authorities are moving forward with an international arrest warrant targeting Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani, Malaga’s prominent shareholder, along with his three children, Rakan, Nayet, and Nasser. The action follows their failure to appear this Monday to address alleged crimes including money laundering, unfair management, and embezzlement that have been raised in connection with the family’s business interests.
According to records tied to the Al Thanis Instruction Court 14, the family members and their legal advisers did not attend the session. The judge had signaled that the proceedings would determine next steps, but the absence of the defendants and their counsel left the courtroom without clarification on the reasons. The court communicated to the Small Shareholders Association and other participants that the case would proceed with formal measures to secure appearance and accountability, despite the defendants’ domicile being listed in Qatar.
During a brief break, the prosecutor’s representative, Valverde, informed reporters that the legal framework requires documentation to support the continued pursuit of an international arrest warrant. He noted that the absence of the defendant raised questions about legal representation and the need for concrete grounds to justify additional disciplinary actions.
Valverde explained that the prosecution’s request aims to gather evidence within the bounds of the case and to pursue the international arrest mechanism in order to bring the matter to a clear resolution. He stressed that the court would evaluate whether there is a valid justification for the continued absence and, if not, would press forward with the warranted actions to ensure due process and compliance with Spain’s judicial authority.
Because Sheikh Al Thani and his children did not attend, the presiding magistrate suggested that the defendants’ absence would have consequences. The defense team reportedly indicated a medical contingency, noting that the family’s representative might have believed the matter required further verification before personally appearing. Reports referenced a medical transfer from Doha to a London facility as part of an accompanying patient care narrative, though authorities cautioned that such updates must be corroborated before affecting legal obligations.
Looking ahead, Valverde stated that the court would oversee the transfer of all pertinent proceedings and ensure that the Public Prosecutor’s office receives the necessary warrants to move the case to a definitive stage. He emphasized that the legal process remains active and that the court has given careful consideration to the appropriate measures to secure judicial compliance and maintain the integrity of the proceedings.
Pacing through the dialogue with courtroom observers, Valverde underscored that the court has exhausted the immediate avenues available to avoid an impasse. He hinted that persistent non-appearance could trigger further administrative and legal steps, aimed at preserving the rule of law and ensuring that the defendants respond to the charges in a timely manner. Observers noted a sense of frustration about the delays, but also a commitment from the judiciary to uphold due process and to pursue the matter until clear accountability is established.