Maltese Businessman Faces Trial Over 2017 Murder of Investigative Journalist

Sun Sep 06 2026 05:20:18 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Yorgen Fenech is on trial in Valletta for complicity in the car‑bomb assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, a case that shocked Malta and the world.

In a high‑profile case, Yorgen Fenech, a 44‑year‑old businessman, has been called to court in Malta for his alleged role in the 2017 car bomb that killed investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Fenech denies the charges, but the trial follows earlier convictions that saw suspects receive long prison terms and a life sentence for supplying the bomb. The proceedings, which began Wednesday in Valletta, are expected to last several weeks, with a jury sworn in at the start. The case underscores ongoing concerns about press freedom and corruption in Malta.

Maltese Businessman Faces Trial Over 2017 Murder of Investigative Journalist

Yorgen Fenech, aged 44, has been charged with complicity in the voluntary homicide of Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Malta‑based investigative journalist whose 2017 car‑bomb attack killed her and left the nation in mourning.

Fenech, a prominent businessman, denies all allegations. His trial began this Wednesday in Valletta, where a jury was sworn for the case that has dominated Malta’s media landscape.

The case follows earlier convictions that sentenced his brothers, George and Alfred Degiorgio, to 40 years in prison for the bombing, and sentenced two accomplices, Robert Agius and Jamie Vella, to life terms in 2025 for supplying the bomb. Vincent Muscat received a pardon after testifying.

Family members of Caruana Galizia, including her three sons, attended the opening hearing in the courtroom, according to the Times of Malta.

The trial is expected to span several weeks. For live updates and expert commentary, stay tuned to OnPoint for breaking news and investigative analysis.