by: Chris Mangion
Philip Gatt, 40 of Zebbug, was granted bail after pleading guilty to charges of accepting money against promises to influence Zebbug Mayor Alfred Grixti in issuing a permit to a vegetable hawker.
Prosecuting inspector Daniel Zammit explained how two months ago, 23-year old hawker Christian Curmi approached Gatt about an application for a permit of a hawker’s stand at Zebbug, which was proving to be difficult to achieve.
Gatt, who works as the project manager for the Zebbug Local Council, promised the young hawker to influence the Mayor’s decision against a payment of €1,000.
Blinded by his sudden change in luck Curmi paid the money, however no permit was issued as the application could not be entertained.
Following investigations into the alleged bribery case, the police arrested both Philip Gatt and Christian Curmi. The two were today arraigned in court in separate proceedings.
Magistrate Audrey Demicoli upheld both requests for bail after the prosecution did not object to the request as all evidence is in police custody.
Curmi was granted bail against a deposit of €500 and a personal guarantee of €2500. Gatt’s bail conditions included a deposit of €500 and a personal guarantee of €2,000.
Lawyers Michael and Lucio Sciriha appeared for Christian Curmi while Edward Gatt appeared for Philip Gatt.
This article originally appeared on maltatoday
