In brief
Yorgen Fenech, a 44‑year‑old Maltese businessman, opened a high‑profile trial in Valletta on 9 July 2026 after being accused of being involved in the car‑bomb attack that killed her investigative journalist. The case follows previous convictions, including a 40‑year prison sentence for brothers George and Alfred Degiorgio in 2022 and life sentences for individuals supplying the bomb. Fenech denies involvement but is charged with voluntary homicide and criminal association aimed at murder. The trial is expected to run for several weeks amid strong public and family involvement.
Businessman Yorgen Fenech has gone on trial in Malta over the 2017 car‑bomb assassination of prominent investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, whose death shocked the nation and drew international attention.
Fenech, 44, is accused of complicity in the murder but has denied all charges. He faces accusations of voluntary homicide and criminal association with the intent of committing murder, which carry severe penalties under Maltese law.
The case follows earlier convictions involving the murder. In 2022, brothers George and Alfred Degiorgio received a 40‑year sentence, and in 2025 two men, Robert Agius and Jamie Vella, were jailed for life for supplying the bomb used in the attack. Their convicted friend, Vincent Muscat, was granted a pardon after testifying in exchange for cooperation.
The trial began on Wednesday in Malta’s capital Valletta, with a jury sworn in for the high‑profile proceedings. It was not immediately clear whether Fenech made any statements in the courtroom.
Members of Caruana Galizia’s family, including three sons, were present in the courtroom to witness the start of the trial, according to local media reports.
Reuter’s coverage indicates that the trial is expected to last several weeks, during which evidence and testimonies will be examined by the court. The outcome could further shape public perceptions of freedom of the press and legal accountability in Malta.
