“Retired investor” charged with defrauding hotel and businessman

Asked about his work, Alberto Chang replied that he is “a retired investor”. He is charged with defrauding a hotel of about 5,000 euro.

He is also charged with defrauding a businessman of the same amount.

Chang is further charged with having a copy of the businessman’s credit card.

Police investigations kicked off after the businessman received a message on his mobile phone that he had transferred 500 euro from a hotel, when he had not stayed there.

When the Police spoke to the hotel management, they were informed the transaction had been carried out by the accused.

A copy of the businessman’s credit card was allegedly found on the accused’s mobile phone.

Investigations brought to light reports of other suspect transactions, including a report of fraud to the detriment of the hotel in 2022.

Arraigned before Magistrate Abigail Critien, the accused pleaded not guilty.

Lawyer Claire Sammut from the Attorney General’s Office and Inspectors Daryll Farr and Nico Zarb prosecuted.

The accused was defended by lawyer Ilona Schembri.

The accused did not request bail and remained under arrest.