The 15-year-old Italian in prison in Malta is accused of "very serious crimes".

A 15-year-old Italian boy has been held in isolation for 70 days in a juvenile detention center in Malta, according to his father, Antonio Santoiemma. The father has raised concerns over his son’s deteriorating health, claiming the teenager has self-harmed due to extreme stress. The case is under review by Maltese judicial authorities, with the next court hearing scheduled for August 19. The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its embassy in Valletta, has maintained contact with the family and has visited the detainee multiple times, including a visit on June 26 and another planned for the following day. The boy, identified as Flavio, was arrested by Maltese authorities on May 25. His father claims he was initially detained in isolation for four days at the adult prison section known as Division 6 in Corradino. During this time, the teenager reportedly suffered severe psychological distress and engaged in self-injury. He was later transferred to the juvenile detention facility Coors, where he spent 35 days in continuous confinement, spending up to 22 hours a day locked inside his cell. According to the father, during this period, Flavio was forced to eat while standing and, for three days, had to feed himself using his hands because no utensils were provided. The family, who have lived in Malta for some time, has been in regular communication with the embassy, which has provided assistance. On Monday, August 3, the parents met with embassy officials who offered support. The Italian diplomatic mission has repeatedly raised the issue with local authorities and has taken steps to monitor the situation. A meeting with the director of the detention facility took place, and the embassy participated as an observer during initial court hearings. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the case is being closely followed and that efforts are ongoing to ensure the welfare of the minor. The next court appearance is set for August 19, and the family continues to await further developments. The father has expressed alarm over the conditions in which his son has been kept, emphasizing the lack of basic necessities such as proper eating utensils and the prolonged periods of isolation. Italian diplomatic representatives have been in constant contact with the family since the arrest, ensuring they receive necessary support. The embassy has also conducted visits to the detention facility, most recently on June 26, and plans to return soon. These actions reflect the government's commitment to addressing the situation and safeguarding the rights of minors in foreign custody. The case highlights the challenges faced by families of minors detained abroad and underscores the importance of international cooperation in ensuring humane treatment. While the legal process continues, the family remains hopeful that the situation will improve and that their son will be treated in accordance with international standards. The outcome of the upcoming court hearing will be crucial in determining the next steps in this complex and emotionally charged case.