Marbella fraud probe intensifies

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Spanish police have arrested nine more people in an investigation into the country's biggest ever corruption scandal involving local politicians.

Among those arrested were the ex-wife of the jailed former mayor of Marbella, a bank manager and a court official.

Ex-Mayor Julian Munoz, arrested earlier this year, is suspected of having been a key figure in a multi-billion-dollar criminal enterprise.

The Costa del Sol crimes allegedly included bribery and money-laundering.

Since March, more than 30 people have been arrested, including the majority of Marbella's town councillors.

Mr Munoz's ex-wife, Maite Zaldivar, once told a television programme that he returned home with bags full of money taken from the council.

Apart from real estate, the authorities have seized art work, thoroughbred horses and a helicopter.

Marbella is currently being run by a team of temporary officials appointed by the regional authority.

For decades, Marbella has been an international magnet for the rich and famous, fuelling a property boom.