Statements given by men accused of 2005 murder declared 'inadmissable'

Statements released by two men, still to face trial over the alleged murder of Albert Brian Rosso back in 2005, have been declared inadmissible in evidence.

Anthony Bugeja, 54, and Piero Di Bartolo, 48, stand accused of murdering Rosso after an argument broke out between the victim and Bugeja over a fishing vessel they co-owned. 

On October 10, 2005, Rosso reported for work at the San Luċjan Aquaculture Centre before going to meet his business partner.

Afterwards, Rosso was reported missing. 

Police investigations led to the arrest of Bugeja and Di Bartolo who were subsequently charged with wilful homicide, possession of a firearm while committing a crime against the person as well as disposing of the corpse.

The prosecution claim that a violent row broke out when Rosso met Bugeja outside his Marsaxlokk home to discuss some issue concerning their fishing vessel, Desiree, which was manned by Di Bartolo. 

Bugeja allegedly fetched a firearm and shot Rosso in the presence and in agreement with Di Bartolo, by way of doing away with “the problem”, claimed the prosecution.

The suspects then allegedly placed Rosso’s body inside a sack, transported it out to sea and dumped their load...