Morning Briefing
Youngster dies in Sliema jacuzzi tragedy
A 22-year-old man was found dead in a jacuzzi at a residence on Triq Viani, Sliema, on Friday. Police reported that they were alerted at around 10:15 am that the Norwegian national required assistance. Officers and medical staff from Mater Dei arrived on-site and found the man unconscious. Despite first aid efforts, he was sadly certified dead at the scene. Police investigations are ongoing, though the death is not being treated as suspicious. (Times of Malta)
Two women and man get suspended sentence for threatening journalists
Two women and a man admitted to threatening and insulting journalists outside the court. Before the arraignment of four suspects in a 200kg drug theft from military barracks, their relatives hurled insults and threats at a ONE News crew, blocking the camera and making violent threats. Police arrived swiftly after the crew called for help. On Friday, Keith Pace, 44, Desideria Grixti, 28, and Maria Grixti, 48, were arraigned before Magistrate Kevan Azzopardi. They received suspended sentences and apologised to the journalists, who accepted the apology. The court also issued a protection order for journalists Ruslana Barbara, Shanaya Farrugia, and cameraman Alex Borg. (Maltatoday)
Government and Industry join forces to work on National Construction Codes
Justice and Construction Reform Minister Jonathan Attard announced a new agreement between key stakeholders in the construction sector, committing to the implementation of the National Building and Construction Codes. “This agreement reflects a shared commitment to clear and effective regulations,” Attard stated, highlighting structural safety and fire prevention as immediate priorities. He acknowledged long-standing challenges in the sector and referenced past tragedies, including the deaths of Miriam Pace and Jean Paul Sofia, as catalysts for reform. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the Chamber of Architects (KTP) will lead the drafting of the new codes. (The Malta Independent)