An internal inquiry into the unauthorised use of a laptop at the Corradino Correctional Facility has found no evidence to support allegations of criminal activity, while identifying shortcomings in operational procedures governing the use of electronic devices by inmates.
The inquiry, appointed by Minister for Home Affairs and Security Glenn Bedingfield and led by retired Judge Antonio Mizzi, concluded that although no criminal conduct was established, weaknesses were found in the prison's procedures relating to the use of electronic equipment.
Because the findings concern sensitive security operations at the correctional facility, the full report will not be published. The laptop was seized from the cell of Adrian Agius, one of the Tal-Maksar gang, who was jailed for life for the murder of lawyer Carmel Chircop.
The inquiry established that the inmate at the centre of the case had been granted permission to use a laptop in his cell in May 2024. Under existing procedures, USB ports should have been sealed and Wi-Fi connectivity disabled before the device was handed over.
However, the investigation found that these security measures were breached at some stage when the seals were unlawfully removed, allowing the inmate to access the internet. A preliminary forensic examination of the laptop also revealed that it contained a considerable number of pornographic films downloaded from the internet.
Among its main recommendations, the inquiry called for clearer policies governing the use of laptops by inmates, including mandatory risk assessments before permission is granted. It also recommended regular inspections of laptops and other electronic devices to ensure compliance with security conditions, as well as the introduction of a clear protocol for dealing with similar incidents.
Minister Bedingfield has forwarded a copy of the report to the Police Commissioner for consideration as part of an ongoing police investigation.
He thanked retired Judge Mizzi and the members of the inquiry board for their work, as well as correctional officers whose intervention led to the discovery of the unauthorised use of the laptop.
Commenting on the findings, Bedingfield said the allegations of criminal activity had proved to be unfounded.
"Some were once again quick to jump to conclusions for partisan purposes," the minister said. "Now that I have the report in hand, I will carefully evaluate its recommendations and take the necessary decisions to further strengthen procedures and security at the Corradino Correctional Facility."