Presiding magistrate was witness in jewellery shop theft

The magistrate hearing the compilation of evidence against one of three suspects allegedly involved in the murder of two men in Sliema last week informed the parties in the case that she was a witness in other proceedings involving the suspect.

Magistrate Nadine Lia, in a note that was filed in the proceedings against Daniel Muka, said that she was a witness in the 2017 Diamonds International hold-up case, of which Muka is also accused. She said that none of the parties objected to her continuing to hear the compilation of evidence, which will now resume on Thursday.

Muka is accused of killing Chris Pandolfino and Ivor Maciejowski in their residence in Locker Street, Sliema, on 18 August. He is pleading not guilty.

Two other men have been arrested in connection with the murder. One of them escaped to Spain and was caught in Cadiz on Sunday. He is now facing extradition proceedings in Spain to be brought to Malta.

The other man, Viktor Drago-manski, was arraigned last week and has pleaded not guilty.

During yesterday’s sitting, prosecutors informed the court that they are not yet in a position to present any witnesses as the police are still investigating the murder. The proceedings will continue on Thursday.

Noel Bianco and George Anthony Buttigieg are representing Muka, while inspectors James Grech and Colin Sheldon are the prosecutors. Roberta Bonello is appearing on behalf of the victims' families. Magistrate Nadine Lia is presiding.