Photo of Melvin Theuma and Keith Schembri remains on defence team's table in Yorgen Fenech trial
On the ninth day of the jury trial of Yorgen Fenech regarding the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, a controversial photograph between the person allegedly involved as middleman Melvin Theuma and former Cabinet Secretary Keith Schembri remained constantly present on the defence tea
Photo of Melvin Theuma and Keith Schembri remains on defence team's table in Yorgen Fenech trial
On the ninth day of the jury trial of Yorgen Fenech regarding the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, a controversial photograph remained constantly present on the defence team's table.
The photograph shows Melvin Theuma, who is allegedly the middleman, together with Keith Schembri, the former Cabinet Secretary to the Prime Minister's office, posing at the Castille. This photograph was given to investigators by Theuma himself, together with other material that was inside a freezer box.
According to reports, the photograph was taken on the same day that Theuma was given the job that became known as the "phantom government job". After it was found, it turned out that Theuma kept the photograph because he "wanted to blackmail" Schembri. This was reported by lead investigator Keith Arnaud on the fourth day of the trial.
The photograph is situated directly in front of lawyer Giannella de Marco and her team, with Yorgen Fenech seated behind. The jury, which is facing the magistrate, does not appear to have a direct view of the photograph, although members have already seen it during testimony.
The continuous presence of the photograph comes as the defence is focusing on other lines of investigation, including references to Keith Schembri and former Minister Chris Cardona, whilst questioning aspects of the police investigation. Through their questioning, the defence is attempting to demonstrate gaps and unanswered questions in order to contest the prosecution's case and create reasonable doubt.
Arnaud previously informed the jury that, although Keith Schembri's name appeared in recordings made by Theuma, he was not implicated in the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
Source: Lovin Malta
Source: Lovin Malta