David Schembri, 28, from Sliema, pleaded not guilty to killing Ms Scicluna after repeatedly stabbing her in several parts of her body at around 7pm on Monday.

Mr Schembri, who at one point in the courtroom sported a radiant smile, also pleaded not guilty to being in possession of a weapon and ammunition without having a licence issued by the Police Commissioner, firing the weapon in a residential area and damaging property.

He was further charged with relapsing and breaching a court order handed down in September 2001.

Defence lawyer Edward Gatt informed magistrate Dennis Montebello that his client had a drug problem and needed to be able to receive assistance from the health authorities at the Corradino Correctional Facility. Magistrate Montebello ordered the director of the CCF to verify this information and provide assistance accordingly and in line with prison regulations.

Police inspectors Chris Pullicino and Mario Tonna prosecuted. Dr Edward Gatt appeared for the defendant while Dr Emanuel Mallia and Dr Giannella Caruana Curran appeared parte civile for the victim’s family.

Meanwhile, on 5 April, Mr Schembri was charged with attempting to murder Renard Mallia after allegedly hitting him with an iron bar, as well as with holding him against his will and seriously injuring him.

During this arraignment, Mr Schembri was further charged with stealing more than Lm100, causing damage to Mr Mallia’s property, driving recklessly and without an insurance cover and with being a relapser.