Daphne Caruana Galizia was investigating suspected corruption by businessman Yorgen Fenech and members of Malta's government when she was killed in a 2017 car bombing, a jury has been told. Fenech is on trial accused of commissioning and paying for her murder.
Key facts
- Daphne Caruana Galizia was killed in a car bombing in October 2017.
- She was investigating suspected corruption by Yorgen Fenech and members of Malta's government, the jury heard.
- Yorgen Fenech is on trial for murder, accused of commissioning and paying for the killing.
- Her son said she was examining a leak from Electrogas, part owned by Fenech.
- Fenech is heir to one of Malta's biggest fortunes.
Daphne Caruana Galizia was investigating suspected corruption by the businessman Yorgen Fenech and members of Malta’s government when she was killed, a jury has heard, according to the Guardian.
Fenech, described as the heir to one of Malta’s biggest fortunes, is on trial for murder. He is accused of commissioning and paying for the killing of Caruana Galizia in a car bombing in October 2017.
The journalist’s son told the court that his mother was examining a leak from Electrogas, a company part owned by Fenech, at the time of her death.
The testimony places the journalist’s investigative work at the centre of the case, linking her reporting on suspected corruption to the circumstances of her killing.
The trial continues, with the jury weighing the accusations against Fenech over his alleged role in the murder.
Why it matters
Caruana Galizia's killing became a defining moment for press freedom in Europe, drawing international attention to corruption and the safety of journalists. The trial's outcome carries significant weight for accountability in Malta and for the wider protection of investigative reporting.
Frequently asked questions
Who is on trial for Daphne Caruana Galizia's murder?
Businessman Yorgen Fenech, described as the heir to one of Malta's biggest fortunes, is on trial accused of commissioning and paying for her killing.
What was Caruana Galizia investigating when she was killed?
According to testimony, she was investigating suspected corruption by Yorgen Fenech and members of Malta's government, and was examining a leak from Electrogas, a company part owned by Fenech.
When and how was she killed?
She was killed in a car bombing in October 2017.