The Office of the Prime Minister has published parts of the report of an administrative inquiry which had looked into the theft of drugs from an Armed Forces of Malta base in Safi.

In a statement, The Office of the Prime Minister said that it is publishing "the facts, considerations, conclusions, and recommendations of the administrative inquiry appointed by the Prime Minister and led by retired Judge Geoffrey Valenzia." This was done following the advice of Judge Valenzia as to what can and cannot be published.

The inquiry examined the facts and circumstances surrounding the theft of cannabis resin stored at the Armed Forces of Malta Headquarters in Safi on the night of 22-23 February. The amount of drugs stolen was originally said to be 226kg, however a court was later told that it was actually 132kg.

The inquiry is independent of any criminal investigations or other legal proceedings, such as the magisterial inquiry, it said.

Six people had been charged in court in connection to the theft, and they all pleaded not guilty.

As a result of the conclusions of the administrative inquiry, the suspension of Brigadier Clinton O'Neill is being lifted, and he is reinstated with all responsibilities as Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, the statement read.

The internal disciplinary proceedings within the Armed Forces of Malta against those responsible for shortcomings, as established by the administrative inquiry, will continue in accordance with the Armed Forces of Malta Act.

The government said that it will be evaluating the recommendations made in the inquiry by Judge Valenzia, to take the necessary actions.

The inquiry report can be read here