Court expert could not identify who tampered with car odometers
A digital forensics expert assigned to investigate odometer tampering in imported Japanese used cars testified that he could not identify the specific individuals responsible for the alleged fraud. Several people were deceived through mileage manipulation on second-hand Japanese cars imported to Malta. These cars, purchased at low prices due to their high mileage from Japanese auctions, were then sold locally with altered odometer readings. The expert, Keith Cutajar, appointed by the court, informed Magistrate Rachel Montebello that devices seized during cybercrime searches related to the alleged fraud could have multiple uses and could be operated by anyone. Cutajar’s testimony occurred in the case against car importers Roderick and Alison Vella from Żabbar and Alexander Spiteri from Mellieħa, who deny charges of money laundering, fraud, and participating in a criminal conspiracy. (Maltatoday)
Government entities receive half of ERA fines
According to data presented in parliament, government entities received half of the highest fines for violating environmental regulations. The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has imposed eight fines exceeding €25,000 each since its establishment in 2016, amounting to approximately €343,000 in total. Among these fines, six were related to the unauthorized uprooting of trees. Taxpayers covered the cost of four fines, as government entities paid a combined sum of €255,000 for their violations. (Times of Malta)
New Malta Embassy in US inaugurated
Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg inaugurated a major refurbishment of the Embassy of Malta in Washington DC, with increased accessibility and security and new facilities for improved services to the public, including the Maltese diaspora community in the United States of America. During the inauguration, Minister Borg met Maltese Ambassador to the United States Godfrey Xuereb and the diplomats and staff of the Maltese mission in Washington, as well other distinguished guests, including the United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. “The United States has the third largest Maltese community in the world. This investment in the quality of our services in Washington highlights our commitment to strengthen ties between the two countries, and to consolidate collaboration across a wide range of fields, from trade and investment to security and cultural exchange,” said Minister Borg. (The Malta Independent)
