Pardon to rogue oil trader George Farrugia had been necessary - investigator

George Farrugia's pardon in the oil procurement investigation had been necessary for the police to build their cases, former investigator Angelo Gafa said this evening. Insp. Gafa, who was part of the team leading the investigations until he moved to the Security Services last year, is currently being questioned by the Public Accounts Committee which is this evening continuing its investigation into oil procurement practices. He said when asked that George Farrugia had repeatedly refused to reply to any incriminating questions before the pardon was granted. He said he believed the pardon had been necessary as it helped the police close their case against a number of people. Insp. Gafa said he believed Mr Farrugia had told the truth because he was always consistent in what he said. Mr Farrugia, Insp. Gafa said, used to bribe Enemalta officials with the full knowledge and consent of all but one of his brothers. He said that before he was transferred out of the Economic Crimes Unit he had suggested that they face corruption charges together with others. He said that the police had interrogated or interviewed several people including former minister Austin Gatt and Opposition MP...