Transport Malta confirmed that a van has caught fire on the Marsa flyover.
‘Currently, Aldo Moro Road towards Garibaldi Road (southbound) is closed to traffic until the situation is under control.’
‘Enforcement Officers are on-site and are diverting traffic towards Vjal Santa Luċija. We encourage drivers to use this alternative route.’
It is currently unclear what cause the fire and whether anyone was injured.
More as story progresses.
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Taking to social media, Opposition leader Bernard Grech shared a video clip compilation from his election as leader of the Nationalist Party, which took place four years ago.
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Grech was elected back on October 3rd, 2020 with 69.3% of the vote after running against Adrian Delia, who received 30.7% of the vote. This makes Grech the ninth leader of the Nationalist Party.
The current leader shared clips from various moments of his recent political career – from his 1st speech as leader to his signing of documents and even campaigning in the 2022 general election.
‘Four years ago today. Thank you for your support. We continue to work’, wrote Grech.
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Dr. Mark Chavez has pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute ketamine in connection with the drug-related death of actor Matthew Perry.
Chavez, 54, ran a ketamine clinic and provided the drug to Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who then supplied it to Perry, the beloved star of Friends.
Perry was found dead in his backyard jacuzzi in October 2023, with a post-mortem revealing a high concentration of ketamine in his system, which caused his death. Chavez is one of five people charged in the case.
In his plea deal, Chavez admitted to obtaining ketamine through fraudulent prescriptions and providing it to Perry, alongside his co-conspirators, including Perry’s assistant.
Prosecutors revealed that Chavez and Plasencia discussed charging Perry over $50,000 for the drug. Chavez’s guilty plea allows him to cooperate with authorities and face a lesser charge, but he could still receive up to 10 years in prison.
Chavez has surrendered his medical license, handed over his passport, and remains free on bail until his sentencing, scheduled for April 2, 2025. His attorney stated that Chavez has taken responsibility and is fully cooperating with the investigation.
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Notte Bianca is just two days away, and the final preparations and logistical measures for the event have been announced. The night will feature over 50 multidisciplinary performances by both local and international artists across various locations in Valletta.
During a press conference, Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici, along with Festivals Malta Chairman and CEO Aaron Zahra and Frans Agius, and Valletta Mayor Olaf McKay, encouraged attendees to use public transport, which will be extending its operating hours to help reduce traffic congestion during the event.
It was also announced that the ferry service from Sliema and the Three Cities to and from Valletta will operate extended hours until 2:00 AM. Additionally, the Fast Ferry service to Gozo from Valletta will add a trip at 12:30 AM.
Minister Bonnici expressed his satisfaction with this year’s edition of Notte Bianca, which will feature more than 50 artistic events and over 250 participating artists. “Notte Bianca is a vibrant festival full of color, activities, and art. It’s an occasion where local and international talents come together to breathe new life into Valletta through exceptional creative expressions,” said Minister Bonnici.
For those who prefer to travel by car, it was noted that on Saturday, 5th October, Valletta will not be accessible by vehicle after 4:00 PM, with car access limited to the ring road. Residents will be allowed entry by presenting their ID card. Transport Malta officials will be present to manage traffic.
The Ministry and Festivals Malta thanked the Valletta Local Council, the Malta Police, Transport Malta, LESA, the Civil Protection Department, Malta Public Transport, the Cleansing and Maintenance Department, and the Lands Authority for their support and collaboration in ensuring the successful organization of Notte Bianca.
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