Charles Polidano 'ic-Caqnu' pleads not guilty to negligence in 2015 tiger attack

Construction magnate Charles Polidano, ic-Caqnu, pleaded not guilty to negligence this morning with regard to an incident involving a tiger at his Montekristo Zoo, which left a five-year-old boy with grievous injuries to his face.

The case is based on the events dating back to Saturday 28 November 2015, when the boy was visiting the zoo with his 56-year-old grandfather. The tiger is said to have lashed out at the boy despite being held on a leash by handlers. The boy was required to undergo emergency surgery to repair lacerations to his face.

Polidano was also charged with running an unlicensed animal park and keeping wild animals that were not allowed in Malta. He was also charged with relapsing.

The zoo itself was unlicensed, but was however allowed to operate.

Additionally, the two handlers, Michael Mercieca and Muhammad Saleen, were charged with negligence. Both men are also pleading not guilty.

The case continues on 10 October.

Police inspectors Kylie Borg and Chantelle Casha prosecuted. Magistrate Joe Mifsud presided.