Freeport CEO probed over Polidano contract
The CEO of the Malta Freeport is being investigated over alleged money laundering and corruption in connection with construction magnate Charles Polidano and a multi-million-euro contract.
Sources said Alex Montebello and his wife were arrested on Friday and taken in for questioning at the same time as Polidano and his son Gordon – both of whom were released on police bail on Saturday.
The police are investigating how Polidano won a lucrative contract in 2014 to carry out works at the Freeport for which the company may have overpaid.
Investigators are looking into a property that was transferred from Polidano to Montebello for what they believe is a suspiciously low price.
At the time of the property transfer, Montebello was the Freeport’s chief financial officer. He has since been promoted to CEO.
When contacted, Montebello’s lawyer Arthur Azzopardi said: “My client insists this investigation shall lead to the only one conclusion possible, i.e. that he is not guilty of any wrongdoing since he committed no wrongdoing.
He said Montebello is cooperating in full with the investigation and has provided all documents requested from him and has clarified any issues...