80 years ago today, in 1942, enemy bombs killed 16 persons from Sannat, in Gozo. 2 more passed away in the days that followed.

In those dark days of WWII, two German Junkers 88 dropped two 2,000-kilo bombs over the village of Sannat while being chased by two British Spitfires.

The bombs that dropped on that fateful day of the 10th of October 1942, killed 18 residents from Sannat: Mikiel Azzopardi (a baby of a few months); Guzepp Cini, 49; Salvu Curmi, 79; Pawlu Farrugia, 72; Clara Galea, 36; Guzeppa Galea, 29; Guzepp Galea, four; Margaret Galea, seven; Mikiel Galea, eight months; Grezzja Muscat, 59; Marija Muscat, 28; Francesca Pace, 51; Katerina Saliba, 36; Marija Tabone, 16; Carmela Theuma, 67; and Margerita Theuma,10 months. Sixteen died on that day – Saturday.

Another two victims, Lydia Zammit and Carmela Galea died over the following days from their wounds. Besides these victims, about 70 people suffered various wounds and some of them were treated at the Gozo General Hospital.

These bombs totally destroyed 16 houses, considerably damaged 60 others and left a trail of destruction and devastation.

The Sannat Local Council is commemorating this tragedy of the Second World War, on Sunday evening an event to remember the victims of the bombing was held in Triq il-Kbira with the participation of the Santa Margrita Musical Society.

Today, Charles Bezzina has been giving a talk to the children of the village from year 5 and 6 and this evening at 6pm there will be a special Commemorative Mass.

Photos: Sannat Local Council

Permalink: 80th anniversary commemoration of Sannat WWII victims