A Hungarian man residing in Birzebbuga has been found guilty of stealing a laptop, tablet and €150 in cash from a St. Julian’s hotel room, landing him 18 months imprisonment.

The accused, Ans Ghodban, pleaded guilty to the crime, as well as trafficking by sharing of cocaine on a number of occasions. The theft reportedly took place on 9 November.

In view of the accused’s second admission, he was handed a conditional discharge for three years and issued with a treatment order in order to address his drug addiction.

The court took into consideration that Mr Ghodban has relapsed and that he immediately admitted his crime to the police, as well as cooperated with the authorities.

Presiding over the case, Magistrate Joe Mifsud recommended the police to return the accused back to his home. This recommendation was made in view of his unemployed status and the fact that he lives off benefits. Mr Ghodban had already expressed his desire to return to his country.