Nicolette Ghirxi’s Family Not Consulted On Opening Of Independent Inquiry
Nicolette Ghirxi’s family have spoken out on the recent opening of an Independent Inquiry into her murder, which occurred on 27th August, without them having been consulted about it.
The family described the Inquiry as “limited in scope”, urging that their original request for an independent inquiry be respected.
“The family insists that the independent inquiry be called by the Prime Minister with regards to rights given to him in Article 4 of Chapter 273 of the laws of Malta,” they stated.
This inquiry should be “wider in scope” so that all circumstances which led to Nicolette’s murder may be established, they added. In this way, it can be determined whether the state carried out its duties in protecting her life.
Nicolette was stabbed to death in her Swatar apartment on August 11th. She was suspected to be killed by her ex-boyfriend, who was shot to death by the police following a stand-off in St. Julian’s.
Upon requesting the opening of an Independent Inquiry, the family were told that the Independent Police Complaints Board will review the conduct of the police force.
Amid allegations that the victim was talked out of having a risk assessment by officials on duty, the Foundation for Social Welfare Services shared the non-consent form signed by Nicolette Ghirxi when she refused a risk assessment after reporting her ex-partner for harassment mere months before her murder.
“The family expects to be consulted as well as involved in the formation of the terms of reference of the appointed Board,” said the Ghirxi family.
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