Updated: Man pleads guilty to being in possession of heroin but not to trafficking

Jonathon Bonello, a 32-year-old man from Attard, pleaded not guilty to trafficking heroin but admitted being in possession of the drug for his exclusive use.

He also pleaded not guilty to relapsing.

Earlier today, the police said three people were arrested following a heroin find yesterday at an apartment in Attard.

They said they searched the apartment following days of observation because they suspected that drugs were being trafficked from the place.

Their search yielded around 50 grammes of heroin and small bags filled with the drug. They also found three scales and other items related to trafficking.

As a result of their find, the police arrested the couple living at the apartment - Mr Bonello and a 36-year-old woman.

They also arrested a 36-year-old man from Naxxar who, moments prior to the search, was observed buying heroin from the couple and was found in possession of the drug.

Magistrate Claire Micallef Stafrace asked Mr Bonello why he did not kick his habit, which he said he had since he was 19.

Mr Bonello said he was willing to start a rehabilitation programme and that he had already done but had picked up his habit again.

The magistrate granted him bail against strict conditions to follow an in-house rehabilitation programme.

Until he was accepted into one, he had to move back in with his parents and be under their supervision.

She also imposed a deposit of €1,000 and a personal guarantee of €20,000.