A Maltese court has sentenced two men, Robert Agius and Jamie Vella, to life in prison for their roles in the 2017 murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was killed by a powerful bomb hidden in her car. The verdict, delivered after a six-week trial, saw jurors arrive at an 8-1 decision, affirming that the duo supplied the explosive materials for financial gain, despite their denials of the charges.
Caruana Galizia’s assassination had profound repercussions in Malta and ignited widespread outrage throughout Europe, culminating in the resignation of then-Prime Minister Joseph Muscat in 2019. The journalist, known for her fierce anti-corruption reporting, was killed on October 17, 2017, when the bomb detonated as she was leaving her home.
In connection with the murder, two brothers, George and Alfred Degiorgio, are currently serving 40-year sentences after admitting to activating the explosives. Vince Muscat, another participant who has turned state’s witness, is serving 15 years for his cooperation with authorities. He provided crucial testimony regarding the planning stages of the murder, illustrating how the bomb was discreetly transported in a children’s shoe box and detonated remotely from a yacht.
While the investigation continues, a prominent businessman alleged to have orchestrated the murder awaits trial, with court-imposed media restrictions intended to preserve the integrity of the upcoming proceedings.
This case highlights both the dangers faced by journalists tackling corruption and the ongoing fight for justice in Malta, as the country strives to uphold press freedom and address systemic abuses. As these legal proceedings evolve, they serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding investigative journalism and supporting those who stand against corruption.