Terms of reference for AFM drug heist inquiry published

The Office of the Prime Minister has published the terms of reference for a ministerial inquiry to establish the facts and circumstances that led to the theft of 200kg of cannabis resin from the Safi barracks.

The inquiry will be led by retired judge Geoffrey Valenzia.

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According to the terms of reference, the inquiry is set to be “completed by March 14, 2025, without prejudice to the proper execution of its mandate.”

“The Prime Minister has requested guidance from Judge Valenzia regarding the publication of the inquiry’s findings, with the aim of safeguarding the integrity of national security and the judicial process.”

The terms of reference were published by OPM on Wednesday

The inquiry's terms of reference include identifying the processes, procedures, and systems used to have a court exhibit - the drugs - being transferred to the AFM's custody. Additionally, the judge will have to determine what security measures the AFM deployed once the drugs were in its custody. The judge will also have to establish if there is a link between the administrative processes to transfer the drugs to the AFM and the actual theft of the drugs. The judge will also have to submit his conclusions and recommendations, including guidance as to what can be published.

The administrative inquiry was announced by the Prime Minister on Sunday, shortly after the Home Affairs Minister offered his resignation. Robert Abela has refused to accept the minister's resignation and Cabinet yesterday expressed its unconditional support for the minister.