Man arrested in connection with Gzira murder – reports
A man has been arrested following a three-day nationwide manhunt after dismembered body parts were discovered in a suitcase in Gżira, according to a report on Times of Malta. The suspect, believed to be connected to the gruesome incident, was taken into custody by police on Thursday at a property after an intensive search across the country. While details about the suspect and the motive remain unclear, sources suggest the case may be linked to drug importation. The victim, whose dismembered remains were found in a suitcase at sea near Gżira, is believed to have died from asphyxiation. An autopsy revealed the presence of over 100 cocaine capsules in his body, with indications that he likely choked to death before his remains were disposed of in the sea just hours later. Police utilised CCTV footage to aid in their investigation, which culminated in the suspect’s arrest. (Times of Malta)
Weak internal controls, unsatisfactory project management highlighted in NAO report
The 2023 National Audit Office (NAO) report highlighted weak internal controls, project management inefficiencies, and compliance issues in Malta’s public accounts. Total revenue rose by 15% to €7.9 billion, driven by taxation and loans, leading to a €249 million surplus and reducing the Consolidated Fund deficit to €790 million. However, discrepancies like €537,000 untransferred by the Residency Malta Agency and unresolved interdepartmental balances of €338.4 million distorted financial reporting. Recurrent expenditure increased to €6.7 billion, with debt servicing costs surging 23%. Capital expenditure exceeded €1 billion after a 31% rise. Key NAO recommendations include improving financial reporting, clearing suspense accounts, addressing public debt risks, and enhancing project planning and accountability to strengthen governance and fiscal management.
8 millionth passenger travels through MIA for the first time in airport’s history
Malta International Airport (MIA) welcomed over 8.3 million passengers from January to November 2024, surpassing the 8-million milestone for the first time on November 12. This marked a 15% increase compared to 2023, making 2024 its best-performing year yet. In November alone, 630,637 passengers passed through MIA, a 19.2% rise over November 2023, with the busiest day recorded on November 2 (26,936 passengers). Aircraft movements rose by 19.8%, seat capacity grew by 18.3%, and seat load factor increased to 85.6%. Italy and the UK remained the top contributors, while Poland saw the highest growth (+56%), reclaiming third place in MIA’s market rankings, surpassing Germany and Spain.
