Johann Vella, the police officer who narrowly survived critical gunshot wounds sustained during the St Julian's armed standoff has returned home after being discharged from Mater Dei Hospital.

Special Intervention Unit officer Johann Vella was seriously injured when he was shot in the face and neck during a police operation on 24 July. A second officer, Omar Sharif, also suffered injuries, though they were minor.

Sharing an update on Facebook, Vella expressed gratitude to the medical professionals who treated him, as well as his fellow officers, friends and relatives who supported him throughout his recovery.

"It would not have been possible without the support I received from my fellow brothers and sisters in the police force, friends and above all the love and support from my wonderful family," he said.

Vella also said that he was getting stronger every day and that he "will never give up."

Meanwhile, the compilation of evidence continues against 74-year-old John Agius, who is facing charges of attempting to murder the two officers during an arrest operation that escalated into a prolonged armed confrontation. Agius has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

One officer said that he initially believed Vella had died after seeing him collapse with extensive facial injuries.

Dr Jonathan Joslin explained in court that Vella's injuries were so critical that he would not have survived the journey to hospital without immediate intervention.

Another member of the emergency medical team that responded to the shooting, Dr Michael Spiteri, said that without immediate intervention, "he only had minutes to live."