Sabotage, leaks and political ties: the story of the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder trial

A Maltese court has acquitted businessman Yorgen Fenech of ordering the 2017 murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The verdict has sparked public outcry and renewed calls for justice in a case that previously led to the resignation of the Maltese Prime Minister.
Why it matters
The case is a landmark moment for press freedom and judicial accountability in the European Union.
Flowers and a candle lie in front of a portrait of Daphne Caruana Galizia outside the court in Valletta, Malta. Flowers and a candle lie in front of a portrait of Daphne Caruana Galizia outside the court in Valletta, Malta. Daphne Caruana Galizia Sabotage, leaks and political ties: the story of the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder trial A Maltese businessman has been cleared of involvement in the journalist’s death, but his trial revealed the challenges faced by those leading the search for her killers
Juliette Garside in Valletta Thu 3 Sep 2026 13.13 EDT Last modified on Thu 3 Sep 2026 13.25 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google The conclusion of the longest-running murder trial in Maltese history has left a country in turmoil, and a grieving family still searching for answers.
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