Months after this newspaper revealed that an investigation has been launched into the Gaffarena scandal, the police have finally spoken up – even if only to confirm that a probe is “still ongoing”.

Launched last March, the investigation is looking into the controversial multimillion-euro expropriation deal involving businessman Mark Gaffarena, which led to the resignation of Michael Falzon from the post of planning parliamentary secretary.

This development was revealed in a Times of Malta story based on police sources, rather than any official channels.

Last month, this newspaper asked the police if the investigation had been concluded and if charges would be filed, but no information was given.

While a spokeswoman justified the refusal through a provision in the Police Act which bars any officer from revealing details, this newspaper insisted on a reply, pointing out that it was not asking for ‘details’.

There was no immediate feedback, but eight days later the police reacted, saying the investigation was still ongoing. They gave no further information

There was no immediate feedback but, eight days later, the police reacted saying that “the investigation was still ongoing”. No further information was given.

The case revolves around the expropriation of half a palazzo in Old Mint Street, Valletta, worth €944,500 and for which Mr Gaffarena received €3.4 million in cash and property.

Though a National Audit Office report had established that there had been “collusion” between the Land Department, which fell under the responsibility of Dr Falzon, and Mr Gaffarena, the investigation was only launched two months later.

The turning point was a sworn statement by former Land Department director Charles Camilleri, who confessed to not telling the entire truth to the National Audit Office.

Mr Camilleri claimed that he had been “pressured and threatened” by people working for the Office of the Prime Minister not to reveal details that would undermine them.

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