Lawyers' Chamber Alleges Prison Wiretapping, Security Services Deny Claims

2026-06-22T08:01:23.807+00:00 · Updated 2026-06-24T14:03:21.262+00:00

The Chamber of Advocates has called an urgent press conference to address concerns over the alleged interception and monitoring of privileged communications between lawyers and their clients at Corradino Correctional Facility. The Chamber stated its intention to discuss a directive related to these allegations.

In response, Malta's Security Services (MSS) confirmed to The Maltese Herald that no wiretapping or interception of communications takes place within the prison. The MSS's statement directly contradicted the premise of the Chamber's concerns.

The Maltese Herald went further, describing the Chamber's planned strike as a "total sham" and asserting it was driven solely by the interest of defending Yorgen Fenech. The outlet claimed that even "government's propagandists" were aware of this.

Further details reported by The Maltese Herald suggested that the strike was being incited and supported by lawyers with financial incentives, specifically naming Giannella De Marco as one of the instigators. The outlet drew a distinction between defending juridical rights and abusing them.

The issue of privileged communication between lawyers and clients is a fundamental aspect of the legal system, designed to ensure confidentiality and fair legal representation.

Further developments have emerged regarding the lawyers' strike, which was called by the Chamber of Lawyers. The Maltese Herald reported that Peter Fenech, the President of the Chamber of Lawyers, was seen inspecting various courtrooms today, reportedly searching for lawyers who were not adhering to the strike instructions.

According to the same outlet, a number of lawyers chose not to participate in the industrial action. Up to a dozen lawyers reportedly ignored the Chamber's instructions and proceeded with their court duties.

The Maltese Herald described the strike as a "sham" and a "visceral and disgraceful criminal fraud." The outlet alleged that the strike was intended to aid and abet Yorgen Fenech, who is facing charges in connection with the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

The Chamber of Advocates has publicly defended its decision to stage a one-day strike amidst fresh concerns over allegations that confidential conversations between inmates and their lawyers may have been monitored inside Corradino Correctional Facility.

During a press conference today, the Chamber reiterated its demand for an independent inquiry into these serious claims. It stressed the importance of protecting the confidentiality of lawyer-client communications, which is a fundamental principle of justice.