Inquiry launched as magistrate Nadine Lia receives anonymous threat

A magisterial inquiry has been launched after a magistrate received an anonymous threatening letter, warning that her career and personal life were at stake.

Magistrate Nadine Lia received the threat on Tuesday, sparking an immediate inquiry.

It is not clear whether the letter was received in court or at home. 

The magistrate is at the centre of controversy following her repeated refusal to recuse herself from hearing a case filed by Repubblika against the police commissioner and the attorney general, who the NGO says failed to press charges against various Pilatus officials despite an inquiry recommending that more than a year ago.

Earlier this week, Repubblika pushed its battle up to the highest court with a constitutional case and said it was considering exploring avenues for justice in international fora if need be.

Repubblika has argued that Lia is unfit to hear that case because of her ties to lawyer Pawlu Lia, her father-in-law.

Pawlu Lia served as a lawyer for former minister Konrad Mizzi, former prime minister Joseph Muscat and his wife Michelle and Keith Schembri, Muscat's chief of staff.

The NGO said all are linked to the Pilatus case and Egrant or have ties with...