As the trial of Yorgen Fenech, the businessman at the heart of Malta’s ‘Killings that Shocked the World’, unfolds, Hot Malta takes a closer look at the key players involved. From the accused to the witnesses, here’s who’s who in this complex legal drama that has gripped the nation.
Yorgen Fenech: The Accused
Yorgen Fenech, a 40-year-old businessman, is the main accused in the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. A former director of Tumas Group, Fenech was arrested in November 2019 and has since been charged with complicity in the murder, along with other offenses. His trial, held at the courthouse in Valletta’s St. George’s Square, is one of Malta’s most high-profile cases in recent history.
Daphne Caruana Galizia: The Victim
Daphne Caruana Galizia, a renowned journalist and anti-corruption activist, was killed by a car bomb in October 2017. Her blog, Running Commentary, was widely read and often critical of Malta’s political establishment. Her murder sparked international outrage and led to widespread protests in Malta, with thousands marching in the streets of Valletta, including along Republic Street, demanding justice.
Key Witnesses and Figures
Vince Muscat and Alfred Degiorgio: The Bombers
Vince Muscat and Alfred Degiorgio, both from the town of Birkirkara, have confessed to planting the bomb that killed Caruana Galizia. They were arrested shortly after the murder and have since been charged with the crime. Muscat has since turned state witness, providing information that led to Fenech’s arrest.
Kenneth Camilleri: The Middleman
Kenneth Camilleri, a 61-year-old from Birkirkara, is accused of acting as a middleman between Fenech and the bombers. He was arrested in December 2019 and has since been charged with complicity in the murder, among other offenses.
Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech
Malta’s political leaders, Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech, have both been closely watched throughout the trial. Both have expressed their commitment to ensuring justice is served, with Abela stating that his government is “committed to bringing those responsible for Daphne’s murder to justice” and Grech promising that the opposition will “continue to monitor the situation closely”.
