Construction worker denies aggravated drug possession charges

Police spotted the man handing over a packet allegedly containing drugs

Updated 2.34pm

A man caught carrying 28 packets of synthetic drugs pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated drug possession.

The 36-year old Libyan man, who works in the construction industry, was arraigned in court on Friday after being arrested in Ħamrun on Thursday.

The police said in a statement that the man was spotted allegedly handing over a packet containing drugs to another person at around 3.30pm on Trejqet San Pietru.

The officers searched the man and found 28 packets containing suspected drugs, a knuckle duster and cash. 

Photo: Malta Police ForcePhoto: Malta Police Force

They also searched his house on Triq il-Farfett, Marsa, where they found more synthetic drugs, blocks of cannabis resin and drug trafficking paraphernalia.

Photo: Malta Police ForcePhoto: Malta Police Force

During arguments for bail, the prosecution pointed out the offence he is alleged to have committed carries an effective prison sentence. 

The man allegedly resisted arrest and is a repeat offender as he had been sentenced to jail five years ago in connection with a case involving grievous bodily harm.

Magistrate Claire Stafrace Zammit denied the request for bail and ordered the freezing of all the accused’s assets and property.

The prosecution was led by Inspector Wayne Bonello together with lawyer Julian Scicluna on behalf of the Attorney General. The accused was represented by legal aid lawyer Francios Dalli.

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