Maltese court acquits Yorgen Fenech in Daphne Caruana Galizia murder case

A Maltese court on Wednesday acquitted businessman Yorgen Fenech of the charge that he orchestrated the 2017 car‑bomb attack that killed investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The verdict, delivered after a lengthy trial that examined the alleged links between Fenech’s companies and the murder, found insufficient evidence to convict the 55‑year‑old tycoon, who had been detained for several months pending the hearing. The case has been a focal point of Malta’s struggle with corruption and press freedom, drawing international scrutiny since the journalist’s death sparked widespread protests and calls for systemic reform.

The acquittal was immediately denounced by Caruana Galizia’s family and press‑freedom groups, who described the decision as a setback for justice. Her son, who has campaigned for accountability, labeled the ruling a “terrible decision,” while relatives said it denied their mother the closure she deserved. Observers noted that the judgment may prompt further legal actions, as prosecutors retain the option to appeal and other suspects remain under investigation, underscoring the ongoing challenges facing Malta’s judicial system in addressing high‑profile political crimes.