Eleven people were arrested in Malta on Monday in a human trafficking  operation by the police. The arrests followed weeks of intelligence gathering by the Vulnerable Victims Squad and the Financial Crimes Investigation Unit.

Raids were conducted simultaneously in Birkirkara, Gżira, St Paul’s Bay, Siġġiewi, Fgura, Gudja, Paola, Żebbuġ, and Senglea. Those arrested include eight Maltese nationals—seven men and one woman—as well as a Romanian man and woman.

Police seized a significant amount of cash and various valuable items during the raids. The suspects are being held in the Floriana police lock-up.

Magistrate Philip Galea Farrugia is leading an inquiry into what is believed to be an organized crime ring involved in human trafficking. The investigation continues.

#MaltaDaily

Superstar Miley Cyrus paid tribute to her breakthrough role of Hannah Montana in her speech after becoming the youngest ever Disney legend.

The 31-year old got emotional and teary as she was accepting the award at the D23 expo, stating “I had gotten a taste of what my life could be, and from that moment on, I did not want anything else,”

“I stand here still proud to have been Hannah Montana,” she continued. “In so many ways, this award is dedicated to Hannah and all of her amazing loyal fans, and to everyone who has made my dream a reality. To quote the legend herself, ‘This is the life.’ “

Hannah Montana is arguably Disney Channel’s most iconic character in their television history and it is clear to see how much playing Hannah Montana meant to Cyrus.

Cyrus was among 14 artists honored as Disney Legends this year, artists which included legends such as Angela Bassit, Jamie Lee Curtis and Harrison Ford all being awarded the award too.

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Voice actor Rachel Lillis, known for her iconic roles in the Pokémon series, has passed away at 46 after a battle with breast cancer. Lillis, who was diagnosed in May, died last Saturday.

Lillis was beloved for voicing characters like Misty, Jessie, and Jigglypuff in the Pokémon animated series, roles that left a lasting impact on fans around the world. Her work has become synonymous with the early days of Pokémon, making her a cherished figure in the world of animation.

“Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing,” said Pokémon co-star Veronica Taylor. “She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie being the most beloved.”

Beyond Pokémon, Lillis also voiced characters in Hunter x Hunter, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Winx Club. She was also a familiar voice in the Super Smash Bros. game series, where she voiced various Pokémon. Her contributions to voice acting and animation continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.

#MaltaDaily