A 30-year-old Serb was handed an 18-month prison term suspended for four years after he was caught trying to make off with a handbag from a Paceville nightclub.

Marco Scanojevic, from Bugibba, admitted to stealing the handbag, which contained money and a mobile phone, early on Sunday morning. He was stopped by bouncers, who reported him to the police.

Magistrate Gabriella Vella handed down the suspended sentence and warned the man of the consequences should he relapse.

Police Inspector Matthew Spagnol prosecuted. Lawyer Joseph Mizzi appeared for the man.