The police have so far remained mum on whether they have filed charges over the Mosta valley oil spill that occurred almost three months ago.

Questions sent to the police at the beginning of this month remain unanswered despite several reminders.

The oil spill was caused by a leak from an old 45-gallon tank at the Ballut Blocks’ quarry yard. Up to 200 litres of black oil were estimated to have been carried by rainwater through a 400-metre stretch of the valley.

A few days after the February incident, the police said they intended to file charges “for crimes of an involuntary nature”. They also said investigations were ongoing and that negligence was not ruled out.

The Times had followed up the case later that month and, within four days of questions being sent, the police had replied that charges had not been issued “yet”.

They were asked again about the oil spill incident three weeks ago but the police have so far failed to say whether the investigation was concluded and whether any charges had been filed.

The spill was reported by a citizen who happened to be walking in the scenic valley. The oil had been removed in a two-day clean-up operated contracted by Malta Environment and Planning Authority.

Environment Minister Mario de Marco had said such oil spills were of “serious and grave concern” and that he expected those responsible to be held fully accountable.