Pedro Merino Castro

Pedro Merino Castro has been appointed as the new chief of the Unidad Central Operativa (UCO) of the Guardia Civil in Spain, succeeding Rafael Yuste. With a background that includes significant roles within the Guardia Civil, Merino has previously served in the UCO and has a history of involvement in investigations against fraud and smuggling. His professional journey has seen him in various critical positions, including his time as an aide to the then-Prince Felipe at the Palacio de la Zarzuela and in the Department of National Security. Merino's leadership comes at a crucial time for the UCO, as it is currently engaged in high-profile corruption investigations affecting the Spanish government.