The Key Figures in the Yorgen Fenech Case
A list of crucial individuals in the judicial proceedings against Yorgen Fenech, accused of ordering the killing of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, which began almost nine years after the assassination.
The Key Figures in the Yorgen Fenech Case
Almost nine years after the death of Daphne Caruana Galizia, the jury trial against Yorgen Fenech began, with accusations stating that he is the mastermind of the crime. Here are the main individuals in this historic trial for Malta.
Daphne Caruana Galizia was a journalist and blogger who worked independently. She was killed in October 2017 when a bomb exploded in her car outside her home in Bidnija. Authorities believe the killing was related to her investigative work. Already five individuals have been convicted for this crime.
Yorgen Fenech is a prominent businessman and heir to the Tumas group. He faces accusations that he was involved in planning the assassination, something he has continuously denied. His arrest occurred in November 2019, and he remained in custody for more than five years before being granted bail.
Melvin Theuma, who worked as a taxi driver, was granted immunity from prosecution because he provided crucial information. He is believed to have been the link between Fenech and those who carried out the attack, and he recorded conversations with Fenech after the crime took place. Prosecutors will rely on his testimony as one of the most important.
Alfred and George Degiorgio, also known as "il-Fulu" and "iċ-Ċiniż", admitted to planting and activating the device that killed Caruana Galizia. They are currently serving long prison sentences of 40 years.
Vince Muscat, known as "il-Koħħu", was the first to be convicted through an agreement with the state. He acknowledged assisting in the preparation and provided evidence that led to further action by authorities.
Robert Agius and Jamie Vella were sentenced to life imprisonment in 2025 after being found guilty of providing the tools that were used. Adrian Agius, Robert's brother, was convicted for another crime, the killing of lawyer Carmel Chircop, but not for this case.
Keith Schembri was the chief of staff of former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. His name appeared repeatedly during the investigation, but he was never charged and has always denied any involvement.
Chris Cardona, who held the position of Minister of Economy, also denied any connection and was not accused. References to him emerged from statements by others.
Silvio Valletta was the deputy police commissioner who began the investigation before being removed following a court decision. He denies disclosing any details to Fenech.
Lawrence Cutajar was the head of the police force at the time of the arrest. He resigned shortly afterwards and the manner in which he managed the investigation was examined in court.
Joseph Muscat was the head of government when the killing occurred. An inquiry report stated that his administration created an environment in which wrongdoing was not prohibited, and this had an effect on the situation. He denies having any involvement.
The trial is expected to last several weeks, during which a number of witnesses will testify as the prosecution seeks to establish the facts and the defence contests the allegations.
Source: Lovin Malta