Wed Sep 18 14:14:00 UTC 2024: ## Court Upholds Acquittal of Local Council Officials in Flight Refund Case
A Maltese court has upheld the acquittal of five current and former local council officials, along with a travel agency manager, in a case involving alleged fraudulent refunds on flight expenses. The Attorney General had appealed the original acquittal, arguing that the defendants knowingly claimed full refunds despite receiving discounted tickets.
The case dates back to 2007 when the EU’s Committee of Regions flagged potential irregularities in flight expense claims by Maltese delegates. An investigation by OLAF, the EU anti-fraud agency, led to criminal charges against the officials and the travel agency representative.
The defense argued that the association sought to maximize its income to cover increased expenses related to EU meetings and events, as government funding was insufficient. They relied on professional advice, including that of an auditor, who deemed their actions legitimate.
The court, in its judgment, emphasized the lack of any flagged irregularities throughout the process, including during parliamentary scrutiny. The court also highlighted the fact that the defendants acted in good faith, believing their actions were legal and based on professional advice.
The court’s decision confirms the acquittal of all six defendants, including former Mellieha mayor Guzeppi Borg, who has since passed away. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of clear procedures and professional advice in public expenditure, even when seeking to maximize resources.
First Piper 