A 29-yard old Palestinian man who severely beat up a 16-year-old sea cadet near City Gate in 2013 has been jailed for five years.

Ahmed Abdalla Yakoup was charged over the unprovoked beating alongside Somali national Omar Osman, 34, who has since fled the country.

Justin Aquilina, now 18, was left scarred and suffered permanent eyesight damage as a result of the savage attack. The men were also accused of trying to rob him and of robbing Libyan national Essalami Hasheem, slightly injuring him. The Libyan, who was using crutches, had tried to stand up for Mr Aquilina.

Yakoup was also charged with committing a crime while being on probation.

The court had heard how the youth was beaten with a metal rod and wooden truncheons.

The accused continued hitting the victim even after he called the police and after he fell unconscious. The police had found the victim lying bloodied and bruised on the ground. Mr Aquilina was taken to the FLoriana Health Centre for medical care. He was then taken to Mater Dei Hospital and kept for two days for observation.

The Libyan was found lying on the street near the war memorial.

Mr Aquilina had previously stated that there was no racist motivation behind the incident, pointing out that he had several dark-skinned friends. He had told the court that the attack was unprovoked and he did not know or speak to the accused.

Magistrate Josette Demicoli sentenced Mr Yakoup to five years in prison and fined him €278. The victim’s relatives rejoiced as the sentence was read out.

Lawyer Arthur Azzopardi appeared parte civile for Mr Aquilina. Police Inspector Godwin Scerri prosecuted.