UK Authorities Close Door on Harbinson Testimony in Muscat Case
UK authorities have informed their Maltese counterparts that they no longer intend to pursue financial crimes expert Jeremy Harbinson to testify in the criminal case involving former prime minister Joseph Muscat and others, declaring the matter “closed”. The development emerged in court after it was revealed that Harbinson submitted an affidavit explaining why he could not testify, following earlier claims that he feared for his safety if he travelled to Malta. With UK police stating they consider the issue resolved and Harbinson reportedly abroad for a prolonged period, questions now loom over the inquiry’s future steps and the feasibility of presenting key evidence in the high-profile Vitals-Steward case. (Times of Malta)
Sky Bet Shifts Headquarters to Malta Amid Tax Concerns and UK Job Cuts
Sky Bet, one of the UK’s most prominent betting brands, has officially relocated its headquarters to Malta, triggering around 250 redundancies in the UK. Parent company Flutter Entertainment told staff that the move was aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing costs, with commercial and marketing decisions now taken from Malta. However, insiders insist the relocation is “about tax”, contradicting the company’s strategic rationale. While the Leeds office will remain a major site, the shift underscores growing pressure on UK operators facing mounting tax burdens and regulatory scrutiny — and highlights Malta’s continued pull as a competitive hub for gaming firms. (Maltatoday)
Worker Dies After Fall at Pembroke Construction Site Managed by db Group
A 25-year-old worker has died after falling two storeys at a construction site run by the db Group in Pembroke, where the ITS complex previously stood. Emergency teams were called shortly before 7:45am but the man was certified dead on site. Magistrate Joseph Mifsud has opened an inquiry, while police and the Occupational Health and Safety Authority are investigating. The db Group confirmed the fatality, stating the victim was employed by HAS, a Turkish subcontractor working on the project. The company said it is fully cooperating with authorities and will ensure “all necessary support” is provided to the victim’s family and colleagues. (The Malta Independent)
