The accused in the murder of transvestite Simon Grech in 2005 had a relationship with the victim, a court heard today.

Testifying in the compilation of evidence against Ismael Habesh who, together with Faical Mahouachi, stands charged with the murder of transvestite Simon Grech, who was killed on April 5, 2005, Nicolina Portelli told the court she knew the victim because his parents would look after her daughter. On the day he went missing, she saw him near the Detox Centre at 11am.

He looked unwell and said that he had taken some pills and was having problems with Mr Habesh. The two had a relationship but Mr Habesh did not want to leave his wife to live with Mr Grech because his visa depended on his marriage.

She said that later, she heard Mr Habesh tell Mr Grech that he had told him many times not to speak to him outside because of his wife.

Inspector Ray Aquilina testified that he, Inspector Louise Calleja and Mr Habesh had almost tripped on a woman's shoe as they made their way to the field where the decomposed body was found.

The case continues.