Foreigner on trial over drug importation

The trial by jury of a Libyan national charged with conspiracy to import drugs into the country commenced yesterday in the Criminal Court presided over by Mr Justice Joseph Galea Debono.

Mohamed Abdulla Gilani Gharsalla, 29, residing in Birzebbuga, was charged with having conspired with another Libyan, Mohammed Abusetta, to import drugs into the country in September 2000. The bill of indictment alleges that the two men had conspired to import one-and-a-half kilos of cannabis resin into the country. Abusetta was caught by the Maltese police while importing the drug.

The accused was also charged with having been Abusetta's accomplice for the importation of the cannabis resin.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

The trial continues.

Dr Angelo Farrugia is counsel to the accused.

Dr Mark Said prosecuted.