Five cases related to the oil procurement scandal are stuck in court for various reasons, notably because of rogatory letters or because some of the accused have been called to give evidence against other accused.

The issue was raised in a parliamentary question by Labour MP Glenn Bedingfield, who asked the justice minister what had become of the cases and whether he thought they were taking too long to be decided.

He also asked if, after the investigations made, more court proceedings would be instituted.

The case stems from kickbacks paid to Enemalta officials on the procurement of oil from particular suppliers in 2004. The case was revealed in 2013 and arraignments were made in February of that year. 

Oil trader George Farrugia was granted a conditional pardon in order to reveal everything he knew about the case. 

READ: Two in court on oil fraud charges

READ: Two former Enemalta officials arraigned in oil scandal

Justice Minister Owen Bonnici in his reply said five cases are pending in court.

In three of them, the term for the compilation of evidence had been suspended because of rogatory letters issued as part of proceedings.

READ: Oil trader George Farrugia describes how brothers were involved in oil contract commissions - almost €600,000 were paid

Rogatory letters are usually sent to authorities abroad for investigators and the courts to gather information.

Furthermore, the minister said, in all the cases, some of the accused have to give evidence against other accused persons and therefore the courts first have to conclude the cases of those who have to give evidence against others.

Dr Bonnici said he never stopped calling on the relevant authorities to expedite matters as much as possible.

He said he could not reply on whether proceedings would be instituted against other persons since investigations do not fall under his ministry.

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