VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – A medical doctor facing charges over the possession of child sexual abuse material has been suspended from all duties in the health sector following a joint investigation by Maltese and Italian authorities.
The medic, whose role placed him in direct contact with patients of all ages, was identified during an international probe. Health authorities acted immediately to safeguard patients after police informed them of the case.
During a search, police found child sexual abuse material on the doctor’s computer, leading to the seizure of electronic devices for further examination. Investigators confirmed the case formed part of a coordinated operation between Malta and Italy.
Under Maltese law, the possession, production, distribution or access to child sexual abuse images is a serious criminal offence regulated by the Criminal Code. Recent legal updates clarify that accessing such material digitally is equivalent to physical possession.
Those found guilty face prison terms of up to five years, with harsher penalties possible where aggravating factors apply, including abuse of a position of trust or authority.
The doctor is expected to be arraigned in court in the coming weeks.
-Photo Police of Malta-
(ITALPRESS).
