After the arraignment, Ms Zahra’s cousin, the well-known hotelier Winston J. Zahra, read out a statement by the family on behalf of her father, Tony, on the courthouse steps...

"For the past two weeks since the tragic death of Lisa Maria, our family has been silent and very careful not to make any comment about the case.

We are more than aware that there has been a great deal of speculation and comment in some sections of the media that at times has compounded the pain of the family who knew Lisa Maria and the beautiful person that she was.

In spite of this, we understood and fully respected the fact that the police needed the time and space to conduct their investigation to the best of their ability and without interference.

Today the charges brought against Mr Tanti, a teacher entrusted with the care of students, are clear and unequivocal.

He has been charged with the murder of Lisa Maria, apart from a number of other charges. We will not elaborate on the charges or any of the evidence as the place for this to happen is in the courts and the family will not comment in any way, either now, or while the process runs its course.

Despite the enormous pain caused by the loss of Lisa Maria, we will patiently wait for the justice system to work in the months ahead.

Lisa Maria was a beautiful 15-year-old girl. Like the vast majority of 15-year-olds, she had her challenges, had her good days and her bad.

However, Lisa Maria was a bright, intelligent and talented young girl. She was shy but confident.

She always spoke her mind, but did so respectfully.

Was she occasionally rebellious? Of course she was, just like most other 15-year-olds. Was she anxious about her exams? Of course she was, just like all other 15-year-olds sitting for their O-levels.

Was she vulnerable? We think that the fact we are standing here today is evidence of that.

However, Lisa Maria was looking forward to her future and the life ahead of her. She was excited about finishing her exams and enjoying the summer ahead.

She was busy planning what subjects to study in sixth form and excited about her progress in the arts.

She had everything to live for and we would like to remember her for her wonderful traits.

The family thanked the police for their ‘painstakingly detailed work’ and their friends and all those who had supported them. The care has been overwhelming and greatly appreciated."