The man who allegedly kept his estranged wife locked in an underground chamber beneath Fort Ricasoli is back behind bars after having been arrested in a drugs raid on a garage in Qormi, where he was reportedly living.

Seychelles-born Roddie Swinton Williams, 38, was granted bail just over a year ago pending proceedings for attempted murder, placing his wife's life in manifest danger, violently engaging in sexual acts and a number of other charges related to the episode which took place in October 2017.

His bail bond was initially set at €80,000, €30,000 of which were to be immediately deposited in court to secure his release from preventive arrest.

Roddy Williams

However, it was only when that deposit was reduced to €3,000, in view of case-law on the subject, that the accused had regained his freedom pending continuation of proceedings.

Williams was arraigned under arrest on Wednesday accused of repeatedly breaching his bail conditions.

Prosecuting Superintendent Josric Mifsud explained that the accused had failed to keep his appointment to sign the bail book, last turning up on February 19.

Attempts to track down the man proved difficult since he had changed address without informing the police, as bound to do in terms of his bail decree. 

He was remanded in custody.

The case continues in April.

Lawyer Marion Camilleri was defence counsel. 

Seven arrested in drugs raid

The police said seven persons were arrested during the drugs raid in Qormi.

The raid was conducted by the police Drugs Squad, the Special Intervention Unit and district police.

The arrested persons are from Qormi, Valletta, Żejtun, Msida and St Paul's Bay and aged between 38 and 47.

Several packets containing suspected cocaine and heroin were found.