The trial of three men accused of murdering investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia opened in Malta this morning. British prosecutors are closely watching the proceedings, sources confirm, as the case has exposed a web of corruption reaching the highest levels of Maltese politics. Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed by a car bomb in 2017.
She had been investigating money laundering and links between Maltese politicians and organised crime. The three defendants, brothers Alfred and George Degiorgio and Vince Muscat, have pleaded not guilty. But prosecutors say they have phone records and financial evidence linking them to the hit.
Documents uncovered by this newspaper show the accused received payments from shell companies registered in Dubai and Panama. The trial is expected to last several months. British prosecutors are monitoring the case because Caruana Galizia was a British citizen.
They have not ruled out extradition requests. The Maltese government has faced international criticism over its handling of the investigation. Prime Minister Joseph Muscat resigned in 2019 after protests, but no senior officials have been charged.
Sources confirm that the Caruana Galizia family has filed a civil lawsuit against the state for failing to protect her. The case has become a symbol of the dangers journalists face when they challenge unaccountable power.
