Benefit racket: 22 out of 72 people interrogated named Grixti, court told A court heard on Monday that 22 out of 72 individuals interrogated by police in connection with a benefit fraud scheme mentioned former MP Silvio Grixti. Police Inspector Andy Rotin testified that most of those questioned chose to remain silent, but 22 referred to Grixti, while three others mentioned co-defendant Luke Saliba. Grixti, Saliba, and others stand accused of playing significant roles in a large-scale benefit fraud operation that allegedly spanned several years. The scheme reportedly involved the use of fraudulent documents and medical diagnoses to falsely certify individuals as severely disabled, thereby entitling them to lifelong monthly benefit payments. Grixti, a doctor and former Labour MP, is alleged to have been a key figure in the racket. He and the other defendants have pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges. (Maltatoday)
President announces meeting with Pope, Italian Head of State
President Myriam Spiteri Debono is currently in Rome, where she is scheduled to have a private audience with Pope Francis on Friday. During her visit, she will also meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and the Grand Master of the Knights of Malta, Fra John T. Dunlap. In the Italian capital, she will also meet members of the Maltese community residing in Italy. Following her engagements in Rome, President Spiteri Debono will travel to Poland to participate in the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp. Foreign Minister Ian Borg will accompany the President on this visit. (Times of Malta)
