One of nine people who were arrested on Tuesday following a police raid on a garage in Sliema was arraigned in court today, and was sent to three years in prison.

Christopher, Schembri, 34, from Sliema, was also fined €1,700.

The court heard how Mr Schembri, who works as a kerosene vendor and diesel distributor, was found doing drugs in his garage, together with eight others.

The police had said that seven men and two women were arrested on Tuesday during a raid in which the police also found several weapons and drug-related items.

Magistrate Francesco Depasquale today heard how the police had found two 9mm pistols, a revolver, a sawn-off shotgun, a number of knives and ammunition.

The accused was also charged with aggravated possession of cocaine and heroin, illegal possession of weapons and ammunition, trading in stolen items and using tools which were used in burglaries. He was further charged with breaching bail conditions and a suspended sentence and relapsing.

He admitted to the charges. In handing down the prison sentence and fine, the court recommended that the man be given treatment for his drug addiction.

The other persons arrested during the raid are expected to be arraigned over the coming days.

Inspectors Gabriel Micallef and Mark Mercieca prosecuted. Lawyer David Gatt appeared for Mr Schembri.