The Malta Independent 19 April 2024, Friday
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Libyans in Paceville Samurai swords stunt charged with attempted murder of bouncers

Neil Camilleri Thursday, 26 May 2016, 13:37 Last update: about 9 years ago

Two Libyans who confronted Paceville bouncers with Samurai swords on Saturday night were arraigned on a long list of charges this afternoon.

The two men had been involved in an argument inside a club and were eventually thrown out by the establishment’s bouncers. They returned some thirty minutes later brandishing samurai swords. The incident was caught on CCTV.

The two men were arrested last night. They are Ramzi Abdulhafid Ib Abukem and Ibrahim Ben Jeddi, both 33 years old. According to sources, the former is wanted by the authorities in Libya. 

They were charged with the attempted murder of bouncers William Briguglio, Simon Cassar and Carmelo Zammit, attempted grievous bodily harm, slightly injuring Briguglio and Zammit, running around with swords, inciting a fight, threatening the bouncers, throwing stones, assault and breaching the peace.

Both pleaded not guilty.

Inspector Matthew Spagnol said one of the men were arrested last night, having been on the run. Sources said one of the man was found in San Gwann and the other in Swieqi. 

Lawyer Kathleen Grima, who is appearing for Abukem, said the accused was a refugee and had no intention to leave the island. Dr Simon Micallef Stafrace, who appeared for Mr Salam, said his client also had a right to bail.

Magistrate Antonio Micallef Trigona denied the request and said the accused would remain in custody at least until the witnesses were heard. 

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