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![]() Identita Malta Reaffirms Commitment to Investigations Amid Allegations Involving Political FiguresLast changed: August 03 2024 13:00 by PCLMedia The Identità Agency has reiterated its dedication to carrying out necessary verifications and investigations in light of recent allegations presented in court by lawyer Jason Azzopardi, which implicate high-ranking political figures. These allegations have raised significant concerns regarding public trust in the agency. Azzopardi’s application claims, among other issues, that a police inspector was reassigned while preparing to charge top political officials with orchestrating a scheme. This scheme allegedly involved issuing approximately 18,000 Maltese ID cards to non-EU nationals based on fraudulent documents and false declarations. However, the specific political figures involved have not been publicly identified in the application. Referencing a statement from 15 July, Identità firmly denied issuing ID cards illegally to foreign nationals. The agency responded to a Nationalist Party media report that accused Identità, formerly known as Identity Malta, of distributing numerous ID cards to irregular migrants. The agency clarified that ID cards are only issued to individuals with Maltese nationality. Foreign residents in Malta are provided with a residence permit or document that specifies their reason for living in Malta. Following an internal investigation by the agency's Compliance Section and Expatriates Unit, Identità handed over information and evidence concerning certain individuals to the police for further investigation and legal action. Public reaction has been marked by concern and scrutiny. Many individuals are questioning the integrity of the agency and its processes, given the seriousness of the allegations. The situation has prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability from Identità and the government. On 2 August, in response to Azzopardi's court filing, Identità emphasized its serious approach to any allegations or reports it receives, particularly following recent media coverage. The agency has reinforced its due diligence and compliance measures and fully collaborates with ongoing police investigations. Identità affirmed its ongoing commitment to conducting internal and external verifications and investigations as allowed by law. The agency highlighted that after its internal probe, it provided the police with all necessary information and evidence concerning specific individuals for continued investigation and legal action. The Identità Agency strongly opposes any form of abuse and welcomes necessary investigations, pledging ongoing cooperation with the police to uphold the agency’s integrity. The agency remains dedicated to performing all necessary verifications and investigations within legal parameters. In light of these allegations, public trust in the Identità Agency has been significantly impacted. To restore confidence, the agency must maintain transparency throughout the investigative process and ensure that any wrongdoing is addressed promptly and thoroughly. The agency's commitment to cooperating with the police and conducting rigorous internal and external investigations is crucial in rebuilding public trust and upholding its reputation. Read more about Top Officials Accused in Fraudulent ID Card Scheme Amidst Scandalous Revelations Do not hesitat to contact us for more information. |