David Borg and Keith Frendo were convicted after they stole a mobile phone, costume jewellery and a wallet with cash from Josephine Casha some time between 9pm and midnight on 25 October 2003 in an area close to Hamrun and Marsa.

Borg also admitted relapsing in view of previous convictions.

The mobile phone was recovered by police and returned to its rightful owner

The accused said they would pay any damage the mobile battery had incurred.

The court, presided over by magistrate Abigail Lofaro, said a prison sentence would not be adequate in this case. The men were therefore released on the condition that they do not commit another crime within the next 18 months.

Inspector Marthese Micallef prosecuted.