A man accused of theft yesterday swore at a magistrate after being refused bail.

Looking dishevelled, 36-year-old Mikiel-Anġlu Mamo was sitting quietly in the dock until he heard Magistrate Audrey Demicoli deny him a request for bail. As she stood up and was walking out of the court room he uttered a string of expletives, although not in a loud voice.

The magistrate did not react.

Mr Mamo's colourful language prompted Police Inspector Alfred Mallia to tell him to keep his mouth shut and be thankful that he had a good legal aid lawyer.

Mr Mamo then started swearing at the lawyer, Martin Fenech, by which time the magistrate had left the room.

The swearing continued in the corridor outside until the officer escorting him again told him to keep quiet.

Mr Mamo was released from prison just three weeks ago after being jailed on theft related charges.

Yesterday, he pleaded not guilty to defrauding a woman of less than €2,239 on Sunday, stealing the same amount from her and handling stolen property.

Taking into consideration the fact that there are still witnesses to be heard and that he is not a trustworthy person, Magistrate Demicoli remanded him in custody.