Electricity theft and bribery charges are to be issued against more consumers who failed to respond to an amnesty over the use of tampered smart meters, according to Enemalta.

A corporation spokesman confirmed the move after it was pointed out by The Sunday Times of Malta that only 17 customers of a possible 600 had so far been charged.

Last April, Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi had warned that the “full force of the law” would be applied against those who failed to avail themselves of a government amnesty.

Other customers are expected to be arraigned on similar charges shortly

This controversial move was announced in February after it was discovered that some 1,000 compromised smart meters were being used, with the complicity of a number of Enemalta employees.

The government had said those coming forward to regularise their position during a six-week amnesty period would not face criminal proceedings as long as they paid their dues, including a fine and interest.

The waiver was also conditional on consumers providing information on the corporation employees who were behind the scam, which cost the energy corporation millions of euros in lost revenue.

So far, seven corporation employees have been charged, of whom three pleaded guilty.

Meanwhile, 12 workers who were allegedly involved in this scam have been suspended.

In total, 428 customers had applied for this amnesty, meaning that the remaining 600 would be liable to face criminal action.

Replying to questions sent on Wednesday, an Enemalta spokesman yesterday referred to media reports dating back to last month, which said that the police had filed charges related to bribery and electricity theft against a number of Enemalta customers.

“Other customers are expected to be arraigned on similar charges shortly,” the spokesman said.

However, no additional details were given, with the spokesman stating that any questions about court proceedings should be referred to the police.

He also noted that investigations were still ongoing and that findings were being reported to the authorities.

The spokesman added that Enemalta would be closely following these proceedings to ensure that its interests were safeguarded and that revenues due to the company were recovered.