The nine fatalities which occurred in 2010 in separate accidents related to the manufacture of fireworks across Malta and Gozo, represent the highest number of victims ever in a single year in this industry.

The next two deadliest years were 2007 and 2005. From a report commissioned two years ago it transpires that since 1981, there were more victims in Gozo than in Malta.

22 Feb 2010

Alfred Stellini, 46, and Damian Agius, 20 were killed in an explosion at the St Sebastian Fireworks Factory.

3 May 2010

John Abela, 62, a retired sacristan from Zejtun, died some day after sustaining severe injuries in an explosion at the St Catherine’s Fireworks Factory, in Tas Silg, limits of Zejtun.

13 August 2010

41-year-old Mario Dimech died in an explosion at the August 15 Fireworks Factory in Dwejra, Mosta.

5 September 2010

Paul Micallef 35, Raymond Farrugia 38, Nenu Farrugia 67, Noel Farrugia 31, Antinette Farrugia, 27, and Jean Pierre Azzopardi, 27, of Xewkija, were killed in an explosion at the Farrugia Fireworks Factory in Gharb.