Authorities are intensifying their investigation after a dismembered body was found in a suitcase floating on Gzira promenade yesterday afternoon.
It was around 2pm when the suitcase was seen, and while it was retrieved by police later, it set off a nationwide alarm.
The victim is presumed to be a man in his 40s or possibly 50s, and the first evidence indicates that the crime was committed just days ago. Investigators established that the body bore little signs of decomposition. More importantly, the suitcase had not been sufficiently weighty to let it sink, thus enabling it to float to the surface of the water and be spotted.
New leads suggest that a man linked to the case visited a shop in Naxxar, where he purchased an axe allegedly used to dismember the body.
Police are looking for the suspect, possibly in San Gwann.
Forensic experts are examining facial features, which remained intact despite dismembering, as an aid to identifying the victim. All body parts were found. There will be an autopsy today that would likely yield more evidence that could be beneficial in tracking down the killer. Investigators are also probing whether the victim may have been under the influence of drugs or involved in drug-related activities.
All luggage and contents were taken as part of an extensive examination into the forensic laboratory as an ongoing magisterial inquiry takes place.
Photo: Times of Malta
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