
Yorgen Fenech was granted bail on Friday, over five years after his arrest for involvement in the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
The decision, made by Madam Justice Edwina Grima, came during a hearing attended by Fenech’s family and one of Caruana Galizia’s sisters.
As part of his release, Fenech was required to pay an €80,000 deposit and a €120,000 personal guarantee.
His aunt, Moira Fenech, pledged her 15.45% stake in Tumas Group as collateral, though Fenech cannot be released until written confirmation of the provisional transfer of these shares to the government is received. This process is expected to take several days.
Fenech’s bail conditions include several restrictions. He is prohibited from approaching the coast or airport within 50 meters, and must sign a bail book daily at the St Julian’s police station.
Additionally, he is required to stay at his residence between 5 pm and 11 am. The court has not disclosed the address for security reasons, but it is known that his aunt has agreed to host him.
A police officer will be stationed at the residence 24/7, and Fenech will be supervised by a probation officer.
Furthermore, his passport and identification documents will be held by the court, and he is prohibited from contacting prosecution witnesses, including Melvin Theuma and Keith Schembri.
Fenech maintains his innocence in relation to the 2017 car bomb murder of Caruana Galizia, as well as other unrelated charges.
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