Gibraltar Inquiry Probes Missing WhatsApp Messages Between Chief Minister and Lawyer

The McGrail Inquiry in Gibraltar is examining missing WhatsApp messages between Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and lawyer James Levy KC, who was investigated by police as part of Operation Delhi. Lewis Baglietto KC, Head of Litigation at Hassans law firm and Levy's legal representative during the investigation, testified before the Inquiry about a meeting he had with Picardo and Levy shortly after the police probe.

Baglietto told the Inquiry that he could not recall the specific contents of the meeting. He also stated that he had no recollection of discussing any retribution against former police commissioner Ian McGrail at the meeting and took no notes. The Inquiry heard that Picardo sent Baglietto a copy of the HMIC report into the police, highlighting a specific section in his message.

The police officer who drafted the search warrant application for Levy's office and home informed the Inquiry that the magistrate granted the warrant without question. The officer said the information sought in the search was message communications, and a process was in place to respect privileged information.

Why this matters: The missing WhatsApp messages and the meeting between high-profile figures in Gibraltar raise questions about transparency and potential misconduct. The Inquiry's findings could have significant implications for the governance and legal system in Gibraltar.

As the McGrail Inquiry continues its investigation, the testimony from key witnesses like Baglietto sheds light on the events surrounding the missing WhatsApp messages and the police investigation into James Levy KC. The police officer's statement about the search warrant process also provides insight into the handling of privileged information in such cases. The Inquiry's ultimate findings will be closely watched for their potential impact on Gibraltar's political and legal landscape.

Key Takeaways

• McGrail Inquiry examining missing WhatsApp msgs between Picardo and Levy
• Baglietto testified about meeting with Picardo and Levy, no recollection of details
• Police officer said magistrate granted search warrant for Levy's office/home
• Inquiry examining transparency and potential misconduct in Gibraltar governance
• Inquiry's findings could impact Gibraltar's political and legal landscape