MIROSLAVA MILENOVIC CONFIRMS THAT NO 17 BLACK PAYMENTS WERE TRACED TO DR KONRAD MIZZI, KEITH SCHEMBRI, BRIAN TONNA AND KARL CINI

Weeks after a €12 million freezing order was imposed on defendants in the Electrogas case surrounding the Dubai-based company, 17 Black a hearing was held by Judge Edwina Grima. The freezing order, centers around the CIRCA €12 million received by 17 Black.  But today more clarity was provided as crucial testimony and cross-examinations continue to raise more questions on why such freezing orders were imposed in the first instance.

Forensic expert Jeremy Harbinson, who once raked in nearly €20 million from his investigations, once again refused to attend the hearing, ignoring Judge Grima’s invitation to testify. His absence was met with frustration from both the court and the public.

Instead, forensic accountant Miroslava Milenovic took the stand, appearing via video conference. Milenovic’s testimony left the courtroom reeling. Under intense cross-examination by the defense, she confirmed that she had thoroughly examined all the transactions associated with 17 Black. However, Milenovic was quick to acknowledge one crucial fact that no payments could be traced to former Minister Dr Konrad Mizzi, former Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, Mr Keith Schembri, Mr Brian Tonna, or Mr Karl Cini.

All 17 Black money was spent

But the plot thickens. Milenovic was forced to reveal that the €12 million was entirely spent—but on what exactly? Various payments to many entities and companies were made. The forensic accountant further emphasized that, while every payment made by 17 Black was identified, there was no money left in 17 Black’s coffers to account for any further payments. All money had been paid out.

So, the burning question remains: What money could the defendants have possibly received?

The courtroom was left in disbelief as Milenovic explained that she recommended a separate investigation to understand the nature of these payments—but shockingly Milenovic confirmed that no such investigation has ever been conducted.

With the €12 million freezing order hanging and no definitive link between the defendants and the payments, the rationale behind the order was fairly questioned. The courtroom was stunned, and many left wondering if there was more to this story than meets the eye.