Nine cannabis joints were found inside a packet of cigarettes belonging to a 17-year old who at the time was pregnant. The drug find was made during a party held last May at Club Numero Uno.

Prosecuting Inspector Dennis Theuma explained to the court how officers regularly carry out searches at parties.

Taking the witness stand in the compilation of evidence against a 17-year old girl who since has given birth, the inspector explained that two officers were conducting a search for drugs on patrons entering the club premises. Nine cannabis joints were found inside a packet of cigarettes carried by the accused.

“In 10-years of experience I believe I can distinguish between a regular user and someone who abuses drugs occasionally,” the inspector said. “She has a very supportive family and her interrogation was held in the presence of her stepfather. Both the accused and her relative fully cooperated with the police,” Inspector Theuma said.

In her police statement, the accused told investigators about a friendship she had with the man who the packet of cigarettes belonged to. Admitting to the police to being in possession of drugs, the young mother seemed oblivious to the consequences of her actions, yet strongly denied making use of cannabis.

“Allegedly a friend of hers gave her a packet of cigarettes because he feared being apprehended by the police at the door. Ignoring the risk, she allowed her heart to rule her mind, and the drug was found on her. However the man has been identified, investigated and will be prosecuted”, the officer told the court.

Inspector Theuma requested the appointment of a court expert to analyse the cannabis joints found inside the packet. The court upheld the prosecution’s request. Magistrate Natasha Galea Sciberras, ordered a ban on the publication of details revealing the identity of the accused, who at the time of arrest was still a minor. Lawyers Lucio and Michael Sciriha are appearing for the youth. The case was adjourned to 2 April.