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FKNK Council Member Sacked After Illegally Trapping Birds

FKNK Council Member Sacked After Illegally Trapping Birds
Oct 24 2024 Share

David Briffa, a council member of the hunters’ lobby group FKNK, was caught illegally trapping birds a day before the legal season opened.

He was filmed by the environmental NGO Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) in a field in Ħal Farruġ and later apprehended by the police. Officers confiscated his birds and trapping equipment, though further legal action is yet to be determined.

The offence could result in a fine of up to €5,000 and a suspension of hunting or trapping licenses for two to five years for first-time offenders.

CABS released videos showing Briffa setting up traps and monitoring them while sitting in a hunter’s shelter.

Following the incident, FKNK president Lucas Micallef announced that Briffa was removed from all his roles within the organisation, including his position as a council member and subcommittee participant.

FKNK condemned the illegal trapping and acted swiftly after the news broke.

CABS criticised the hunters’ lobby, accusing its members of prioritising trapping over conservation, and called for Briffa to lose his hunting and trapping licenses permanently. The case highlights ongoing tensions between conservation groups and hunting advocates in Malta.

#MaltaDaily

2 Arrested After Trafficking Cocaine Into Malta From Sicily

2 Arrested After Trafficking Cocaine Into Malta From Sicily
Oct 24 2024 Share

Two Italians were arrested on Tuesday evening after they were found in possession of 4 kilograms of a substance suspected to be cocaine, with a suspected street value of €500,000.

The two persons, a 46 year old woman and an 18 year old man, were in a Mercedes driven by the woman.

They were stopped in Malta after they arrived with the catamaran from Sicily after suspicions of trafficking from Italy.

The vehicle was taken to the police garage and investigations were carried out. In a fake compartment at the base of the car were four packets which weighed around 1 kilo each.

€1,000 in cash were also found. Members of Customs also assisted police in the investigations.

The two are being held at the General Lock Up and are expected to be arraigned in court at around 1400hrs.

Investigations are still ongoing.

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Former Maltese Miss World Welcomes Daughter Aurora

Oct 24 2024 Share

Former Maltese Miss World contestant Shanel De Battista has joyfully welcomed her daughter, Aurora, into the world.

She shared a heartwarming video featuring the newborn, capturing a touching moment where Aurora’s tiny hand squeezes her parents’ fingers, with Shanel and her partner, Alberico, lovingly comforting her.

In her heartfelt post, Shanel expressed her overwhelming love and gratitude, saying, “Our hearts overflow with love and gratitude as we cherish every little moment with you. We can’t wait to watch you grow and fill our lives with so much love.”

This beautiful announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Shanel and Alberico as they embark on their journey of parenthood, embracing the joy and love that comes with welcoming a new baby.

#MaltaDaily

Red Bandit Steals Home To Win 2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race

Red Bandit Steals Home To Win 2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race
Oct 24 2024 Share

The German yacht Red Bandit, skippered by Carl-Peter Forster, was declared the winner of the 45th Rolex Middle Sea Race on 23 October 2024.

The Royal Malta Yacht Club confirmed that no other competitors could beat Red Bandit’s IRC corrected time. Forster expressed pride in his young crew, most of whom had limited experience on large boats just four years ago. He praised their teamwork and skill in handling the challenging conditions of the race.

This year’s race saw a mix of light winds and extreme weather, including winds of up to 60 knots.

The crew, who had previously retired from the race in 2023 due to equipment damage, faced similar conditions on the first night but persevered without any breakage, thanks to improved preparation.

Forster’s Red Bandit campaign is part of the Forstar Offshore Foundation, which provides young sailors with opportunities to develop offshore racing skills.

With the exception of Forster and tactician Jesper Radich, the crew is under 30 years old. Their victory follows a strong performance at the 2023 Giraglia and marks Red Bandit as the third German yacht to win the Rolex Middle Sea Race, joining Saudade (1983) and Morning Glory (2006).

#MaltaDaily