Malta: Businessman acquitted of journalist's murder

Maltese businessman Yorgen Fenech was acquitted of the murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who was killed by a car bomb in 2017. Fenech, 44, was accused of commissioning the attack, following Caruana Galizia's investigations into suspected corruption in Malta's politics and business sectors. Caruana Galizia, 53 at the time, was driving near her home when the bomb exploded.

She had faced around 40 libel suits at the time of her death. Fenech faced up to life in prison if found guilty, but was cleared of both murder complicity and criminal association charges by a jury with an 8-1 decision. He maintained his innocence, stating he had not wanted Caruana Galizia dead due to an impending investigation.

After the verdict, Caruana Galizia's family criticized the lack of institutional reforms, emphasizing the need to ensure no one faces similar risks. Five individuals were convicted in connection to the murder, with three found guilty of carrying it out.