Valletta, Malta – A court in Malta has ordered migration authorities to reevaluate the status of Khaled Eddali, a 34-year-old Libyan national, who was sentenced to five years in prison for a violent assault in Marsa in 2021. The court deemed Eddali’s criminal record “alarming,” prompting the need for a reassessment of his current status in the country.
The assault in question involved Eddali attacking a Syrian man with a meter-long metal bar inside a Marsa garage. The victim sustained serious injuries, including being hit on the head, arms, and legs, as well as having his mobile phone and cash stolen during the attack.
During the court proceedings, the victim testified that he had no prior conflicts with Eddali and could not explain the motive behind the violent assault. Eddali faced charges of attempted murder, grievous bodily harm, aggravated theft, and injuring a third party, among others. Despite pleading not guilty, he was found guilty of injuring the Syrian man.
In delivering the verdict, the court considered various factors, such as Eddali’s criminal record and lack of remorse for his actions. The magistrate highlighted Eddali’s failure to learn from previous incarcerations and his continued problematic behavior in the country.
The court sentenced Eddali to five years in jail, with deductions for time spent in preventive custody. Additionally, he was ordered to pay court expenses and refrain from contacting the victim. The Police Commissioner was tasked with reassessing Eddali’s status in Malta and determining if deportation was warranted after he serves his sentence.
The court emphasized the need to protect society and send a message that individuals who harm others will face serious consequences. Despite the victim forgiving his attacker, the court underscored the severity of the injuries and the importance of justice in such cases.
Legal proceedings were carried out by prosecutors Etienne Savona and Darlene Grima, along with Inspector Roderick Attard, while the accused received legal aid representation. The case serves as a reminder of the justice system’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring the safety of the community.