CCTV was switched off 41 times by Gram jeweller throughout year

Enemalta was asked to present reports of its electricity interruptions today in a criminal case against the owner of Gram Jewellers, George Tabone, who stands accused of handling stolen jewellery and relapsing.

The prosecution claims Tabone switched off his outlet's CCTV system so as to conceal the purchase of stolen jewellery that took place in his shop.

A report of all the national energy utility's power blackouts on Psaila Street, Birkirkara was presented in court by Enemalta representative Eric Montfort, who explained that the report details the date and times the Corporation took the Birkirkara street off the grid. The interruptions include scheduled maintenance and emergency damages.

Defence counsel Michael Schiriha asked the witness if the report also listed the instances of domestic interruptions, like fuses burning out. Montfort replied that he did not have the technical expertise to answer whether Enemalta was in possession of such records.

Tabone is accused of handling jewellery stolen from a Valletta shop on 8 August, 2001. One of the thieves, Glenn Debattista, alleged that he had sold his share and that of his accomplice, to the accused. Debattista also claimed he had been paid over €21,000 for the stolen gold and that a solitaire ring valued at €39,000 was included in the sold items.

Evidence heard during the compilation of evidence showed that the jeweller's CCTV system was switched off 41 times over 220 days. Debattista had alleged the accused used to switch off the recording system when they discussed the transactions of the stolen gold.

It is believed over €500,000 in jewellery was stolen. Inspectors Joseph Mercieca and James Grech are prosecuting.