Extradition proceedings against a Maltese-Australian man wanted by Lithuanian authorities over allegations of fraud ground to a halt when the defence flagged discrepancies regarding his place of birth.

Consequently Lithuanian authorities were requested by a Maltese court to clarify the matter and furnish it with all relevant documentation in time for the next sitting scheduled for January 6, when it will hear all submissions related to the request in a “marathon sitting”.

The case involves 44-year-old travel company director Angelo Spiteri who, according to the European Arrest Warrant, was born in Australia.

During the proceedings, however, lawyer Jason Azzopardi, who is part of a three-man team defending the wanted man, challenged the validity of the warrant saying there were certain discrepancies on the man’s identity.

Dr Azzopardi pointed out that when the Schengen Information Alert had been issued – as part of a mechanism through which EU member states trace potential suspects travelling from one country to another – Mr Spiteri was listed as born in Malta. Furthermore, he was then described in the arrest warrant as being Lithuanian. 

“This must be a record as I’m not aware of any other person who has three nationalities,” Dr Azzopardi told the court presided by Magistrate Aaron Bugeja.

The prosecution, led by Inspector Mario Cuschieri and lawyer Vincienne Vella from the Attorney General’s Office, asked the court’s permission to request additional information from the Lithuanian authorities.

While acceding to the request, the magistrate said that no further proceedings could take place before this issue was resolved and so adjourned the case for next week.

The director of Vilnius-registered travel company Atostogu Sandelis is facing four charges carrying up to a total of 17 years imprisonment. 

Mr Spiteri, together with two other directors - Nerijus Ereminas and Guy Jane - is accused of authorising company employees to accept money in return for accommodation services, which in reality were never offered. The alleged fraud was committed between 2010 and 2011.

Mr Spiteri is also facing charges of instructing company managers to make telephone calls inviting people for travel presentations, with the aim of persuading them through misleading information to sign agreements and deposit money.  Lithuanian authorities also issued charges related to fraudulent management of accounts and with forging documents.

Lawyers Chris Busietta and Patrick Valentino are also appearing for the wanted man.