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Ex-ETA Leader Admits Ordering 2001 Killing of UPN Councillor at Spain's National Court

Prosecutors seek a 42-year sentence with extensive bans as the trial proceeds.

Overview

  • Ainhoa Múgica, known as 'Olga' and a former ETA military chief, acknowledged in court that she ordered the assassination of José Javier Múgica in 2001.
  • The prosecution requests 42 years in prison and 70 years of absolute disqualification, plus a 200‑metre no-contact order with the victim’s family and a 10‑year ban on residing in Leiza.
  • A police expert highlighted a handwritten instruction sheet featuring a van sketch and Basque notes, along with Múgica’s organizational role, as key evidence.
  • Prosecutors link the attack to the Argala cell—Andoni Otegui Eraso, Óscar Celaraín Ortiz and Juan Carlos Besance Zugasti—convicted in 2011 for planting the lapa explosive under the councillor’s vehicle.
  • UPN called for full accountability in this case and urged clarification of other unresolved ETA murders, citing more than 300 victims without final sentences.