PC Simon Schembri

The policeman injured in a hit-and-run incident in Luqa 10 days ago is making good progress but his road to a full recovery will be long, friends of the family said on Thursday.

The update was given by one of his closest friends, Police Inspector Herman Mula, who said that PC Simon Schembri had started his long road to recovery.

The 48-year-old father of three was grievously injured in a hit-and-run incident in Luqa on May 15. He had tried to stop a motorist driving a Mercedes, allegedly without a seatbelt, who now stands charged with attempted murder.

One of his arms had to be amputated, and he also suffered injuries to his limbs and lungs. Although Mr Schembri has been taken off the ventilator, he is still having difficulty breathing and communicating.

Liam Debono, 17, was charged with attempted murder and 22 other charges on Wednesday. He pleaded not guilty and was denied bail.

Mr Mula said on Thursday that with the approval of the family, friends had set up two bank accounts to collect funds to help Mr Schembri in his recovery. It is believed he will eventually require medical treatment abroad.

The bank details are:

HSBC BANK

Account: MT HBMT 013 285648 050.

IBAN number: MT 39MMEB 441300000000 13285648050

BOV BANK

Account: 4002530101-6.

IBAN number: MT21 VALL 220130000000 40025301016

BIC: VALLMTMT