Woman Dies in Suspected Femicide in Żabbar

A 44-year-old woman from Xgħajra was found dead at a residence in Żabbar yesterday afternoon after allegedly suffering gunshot wounds in what police are investigating as a suspected case of femicide.

Police were informed at around 3pm that a shooting had reportedly taken place at a residence in Triq Corrado, Żabbar. Officers immediately went to the scene, where a medical team also arrived to provide assistance.

Upon entering the residence, police found the woman lifeless in a bedroom. Initial indications suggested that she had sustained one or more gunshot wounds.

A 42-year-old man from Żabbar, identified as the victim’s partner, was present at the residence when police arrived. He was arrested and taken to Police Headquarters in Floriana for further questioning.

A firearm was also found inside the residence and is believed to have been used in the incident.

The case was referred to Magistrate Dr Monica Borg Galea LL.D., who ordered an inquiry and appointed several experts to assist with the investigation.

Police said their inquiries so far have established that there had been no recently reported incidents between the victim and the arrested man. However, the couple had a history of domestic violence allegations.

In 2016, the man had been charged in court with domestic violence against the woman. He was subsequently found guilty in 2017 and sentenced to one year in prison. Also in 2017, the woman reported the man over alleged threats. He was taken to court but was acquitted after being found not guilty.

Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death are ongoing.

#MaltaDaily