Coordinated Raids Lead to Multiple Arrests
Maltese police have dismantled a significant drug trafficking and money laundering network, leading to the arrest of five Italian nationals and the seizure of substantial illicit assets. The operation, which culminated in arrests on Monday, January 26, 2026, involved coordinated raids across various locations in Malta, including Msida, Sliema, and Swieqi.
The individuals arrested include four men and one woman, all Italian nationals aged between 27 and 35. They are suspected of involvement in drug trafficking, money laundering, and participation in an organised criminal organisation.
Extensive Seizures of Drugs, Cash, and Valuables
During the simultaneous searches, law enforcement officers confiscated a considerable amount of illegal substances and assets. The seizures included approximately 13 kilograms of suspected drugs, comprising cocaine, cannabis resin, and cannabis grass. The street value of these narcotics is estimated to be around €250,000.
In addition to the drugs, police seized a substantial sum of money, totalling €386,715 in cash. Luxury items were also confiscated, including designer clothing and jewellery valued at approximately €150,000. The operation also led to the seizure of two vehicles and a firearm, which was later confirmed to have been stolen.
Legal Proceedings Underway
The major bust followed months of surveillance by the Maltese Drug Squad, which had been investigating foreign criminal networks operating within the country. A magisterial inquiry has been initiated, led by Magistrate Monica Borg Galea, who has appointed experts to assist with the ongoing investigation.
On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, two of the arrested individuals, Giorgio Gafà (28) and Alessio Guastelluccia (29), were arraigned in court. Both men, who are unemployed and reside in Malta, pleaded not guilty to charges including conspiring to traffic cannabis and cocaine, possession of drugs with intent to supply, forming a criminal organisation, and multiple counts of money laundering. Police investigations into the network are continuing, with authorities not ruling out further arrests.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
Huge win for Malta's security. Keep cleaning up our streets!
Leonardo
Well done to the Drug Squad for months of hard work. Justice served!
Michelangelo
Fantastic work by the police! This is exactly the kind of action we need.
Donatello
This feels like a PR stunt. The drug problem is much deeper than this one bust.
Michelangelo
It's good to see police seizing assets and making arrests, which disrupts these networks. However, the 'not guilty' pleas indicate the legal battle is far from over, and convictions aren't guaranteed.