MEPA’s plans to demolish illegal structures at the Montekristo Estates in Hal Farrug have been halted after the owners, construction magnates and brothers Charles and Paul Polidano, obtained a temporary warrant of prohibitory injunction.

Multiple enforcement notices concerning the site have been issued by MEPA over the years, but no remedial action had been taken.

Works Department employees, together with Armed Forces of Malta and police personnel, went on site to carry out demolition works. The police and AFM were on high alert during the whole time the operation was ongoing.

It is believed that there were some 150 policemen and soldiers involved in the operation, some of whom were heavily armed.

But the temporary warrant issued by Judge Silvio Meli put an end to their efforts today. The case will be heard in court on 11 December. 

The action taken today comes two days before environmentalists will hold a protest march in Valletta.

In a statement later, the government said that abuse will not be tolerated. It respects the court's decision but insisted it will work to stop all illegal activities.