The bodies of two men were found yesterday – a 53-year-old Englishman was found dead in the sea in Sliema and the body of a 34-year-old was found in a St Julian’s residence.

The police were first notified that a body that was seen drifting in Qui-si-sana, Sliema, a few metres away from the shore.

It was immediately established that the lifeless body was that of a 53-year-old Englishman and some of his belongings were found on the rocks nearby. An Armed Forces of Malta statement later said that traces of blood were also allegedly reported found on the rocks.

The police said that no signs of external violence could be seen on the body, which was lifted from the sea by an Armed Forces of Malta patrol boat.

Soon after, the police were alerted about another man who had lost consciousness at his residence in St George’s Junction, St Julian’s. The 34-year-old man was certified dead on the spot by a medical team from St Luke’s Hospital.

Duty magistrate Miriam Hayman opened inquiries into both cases and appointed several experts to assist her. An autopsy is expected to be held today.