Rifle, gun found in suitcase

A Gozitan woman was yesterday given a suspended sentence after packing her father’s rifle and gun in a suitcase to take back home with her to the US.

Mary Camilleri Bajada, 47, was stopped at Malta International Airport after security staff discovered the wrapped rifle and gun while scanning luggage before it is placed in the aircraft’s hold early yesterday morning.

Mrs Camilleri Bajada, who lives in the US, pleaded guilty to possession of the weapons and trying to export them without a licence.

Prosecuting Inspector Mario Haber explained that the weapons had belonged to her father and that she wanted to take them back home with her.

“There was no ill intent on her part and she cooperated fully,” he said.

Magistrate Joseph Apap Bologna pointed out that she would have landed in trouble had she gone through with the guns to the US. “Can you imagine what would have happened? They would have sent you to Guantanamo,” he said jokingly.

Magistrate Apap Bologna jailed her for six months suspended for one year. Lawyer Adrian Camilleri appeared for Mrs Camilleri Bajada.