Nine charged on customs fraud after EU prosecutor operation in Malta
Seven men and two women were arraigned on Wednesday to face charges of customs fraud and corruption following an operation led by the EU’s anti-graft agency last year. This marks the first major operation in Malta by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). In a statement, the EPPO detailed a suspected fraudulent scheme designed to evade customs taxes and duties on imported goods such as clothing, bags, and shoes from China. The scheme allegedly involved under-declaring the value and weight of these goods, with the complicity of customs officials who were reportedly bribed to overlook the discrepancies. The alleged illegal activities began in December 2021 and continued until July 2023, when the suspects were arrested at the EPPO’s request.
Fearne’s Commission bid still on the table – Abela
Former Health Minister Chris Fearne might still get the nod to become Malta’s European Commissioner if the court hearing his Vitals case finds there not enough prima facie evidence to indict him, Prime Minister Robert Abela said. Taking questions from the media, Abela said he does not exclude the possibility. “It’s one of the most probable possibilities,” he said. Fearne is facing criminal charges in connection with the hospitals magisterial inquiry. The case continued today and a decision on whether the court sees enough evidence against Fearne to indict him will be taken next week. Prime Minister Abela has up to 24 July to nominate Malta’s representative. (The Malta Independent)
€33m ship-to-shore project completed
The Grand Harbour’s power supply project, which supports the shore-to-ship initiative, has been completed. The €33 million project, co-financed by EU funds, will allow certain cruise ships to turn off their engines and instead use Malta’s energy infrastructure. During a press conference at the Valletta Cruise Port, it was announced that the project will lead to a 90% reduction in pollution at the port, as five cruise liners can utilize the initiative simultaneously. This initiative can only reduce emissions if the cruise ships are equipped with the necessary technology to use the shore-to-ship project. A similar project is currently being developed to enable compatible vessels to switch off their engines when docking at Birżebbuġa’s Freeport. (Maltatoday)
