Updated: David Gonzi being investigated in Mafia betting probe

(Adds statement by Dr Gonzi issued this morning) Lawyer David Gonzi is under investigation by Italian investigators after his name cropped up in several gaming companies allegedly run by the mafia. The name of former prime minister Lawrence Gonzi’s son crops up several times in a 700-page document submitted by investigators to the Reggio Calabria tribunal and seen by the Times of Malta. He is one of 128 people listed in the investigation into money laundering by the Calabrian mafia, known as ’Ndrangheta. Hard cash obtained through illegal means was allegedly recycled through ‘legitimate’ gaming outlets in Italy, Malta and other countries. David Gonzi’s name emerged as a result of his one-third shareholding and directorship in GVM Holdings, a company that provides fiduciary services. Through his partnership in GVM, Italian investigators place Dr Gonzi at the heart of a pyramidal company structure behind the Italian gaming companies registered in Malta. He is the only GVM partner mentioned by name. His presence has been vaunted by Italian investigators as the mafia’s ability to infiltrate the highest levels of society. “The involvement – which has emerged many times even if not...