Exclusive: Decision on Qala Saints corruption case this week

Match-Fixing Scandal Rocks Gozo Football League: Key Events and Developments

On March 17, 2024, a crucial match in the Gozo Football League was played between Nadur Youngsters and Qala Saints, ending in a 1-1 draw. This result maintained the competitive tension in the league. Nadur Youngsters ultimately went on to win the title by a narrow margin of just two points after a season-long battle for supremacy.

However, the aftermath of the match took a dark turn when reports emerged alleging an attempt to manipulate the outcome of the game. It was revealed that Qala Saints FC, through their player Manwel Xerri and Żebbuġ Rovers goalkeeper Leonard Camilleri, had reportedly tried to bribe a Nadur Youngsters player to deliberately underperform and help Qala Saints secure victory in the league.

The Nadur player in question acted with integrity, immediately informing his club officials of the bribery attempt. The incident was swiftly reported to the police, leading to an official investigation. Authorities later confirmed they had obtained recordings related to the alleged bribery. The Malta Football Association (MFA) Integrity Officer, Hermann Mula, also announced that a parallel investigation had been launched by the MFA. Interestingly, Qala Saints FC issued a public statement denying that any of their players or the club itself was under investigation at the time.

Formal Charges against players and Qala Saints in June 2024

In June 2024, after a thorough investigation conducted by both the MFA and the police, Qala Saints, along with players Manwel Xerri and Leonard Camilleri, were formally charged with match-fixing before the MFA Integrity Board. The charges stemmed from evidence collected during the investigation, which pointed to their alleged involvement in attempting to manipulate the outcome of the March 17 match. Both Xerri and Camilleri were suspended from all football-related activities pending the resolution of these proceedings.

Speaking to the media, MFA Integrity Officer Hermann Mula confirmed the charges and revealed that the two players were also set to face criminal charges under Malta’s Manipulation of Sport Law. If found guilty, Xerri and Camilleri could face severe penalties, including jail time.

The scandal sent shockwaves through the Gozo football community, tarnishing the league’s reputation and highlighting the importance of ongoing vigilance against corruption in sports. As the investigation and legal proceedings continue, this case serves as a stark reminder of the critical need to uphold the integrity of football at all levels.

The court case

Both players were eventually arraigned in October. They were accused of attempting to bribe Nadur’s goalkeeper, Steve Sultana, to secure a win for Qala Saints. The court heard that Camilleri, once a reserve goalkeeper for Nadur, allegedly contacted Sultana via WhatsApp on 5th March, offering a government job if he allowed Qala Saints to win. Camilleri, 39, allegedly acted under the direction of Qala Saints player Xerri, 31.

According to police testimony, Sultana was offered a government where he wouldn’t have to turn up to work for  a year and still get paid.

The alleged approach took place ahead of the teams’ scheduled match on 17th March. Sultana promptly informed his club president, lawyer Chris Said, who eventually notified MFA Integrity Officer Herman Mula. Mula then confirmed the attempted bribe in discussions with Sultana, leading to a police investigation.

Mandatory prison sentence and fine for sports corruption

Both Xerri and Camilleri, residents of Xewkija, pled not guilty to charges under the Prevention of Corruption in Sport Act. This prescribes penalties of up to three years in prison and fines ranging from €5,000 to €30,000, with no provision for suspended sentences.

Inspector Wayne Rodney Borg provided testimony on the investigation’s findings, while Lawyer Herman Mula appeared for the MFA. Both players were suspended from the league, and disciplinary action is being pursued against Qala Saints FC who are bizarrely being defended by PN Health Spokesperson Adrian Delia. The case remains ongoing.