Two underage boys who claimed they borrowed their friend’s vehicle while she was asleep were yesterday charged with stealing it because they allegedly did not have the owner’s permission.

The boys, aged 17 and 15, from Cospicua, were charged with stealing a car, belonging to Charmaine Bezzina on the night of 5 and 6 February. The boys also had two other charges brought against them: stealing a car stereo from George Abdilla’s car in Zabbar and damaging the car. The 17-year-old alone was further charged with driving without being in possession of a driver’s licence.

Before Magistrate Doreen Clarke, the boys pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them except the first charge of stealing the car.

Magistrate Clarke put off the case for judgement to 12 March.

Police Inspector Alexander Grech prosecuted while Dr Mark Busuttil appeared for the accused.