Aiman Sherif, 27, who lives in Sliema, was charged with holding up Fathi Ali El Ghonsol and stealing $2,000 and Lm80. He was further charged with being in possession of a sharp and pointed instrument, with slightly injuring Ghonsol after assaulting him and with breaching the peace.

Mr Ghonsol testified in court yesterday and explained how, while he was walking in Sliema on Thursday evening, a white Peugeot 106 pulled up and two men requested money. At first he resisted them and ended up with a cut on his left eye. He said his assailants also punched him in the face before getting back into the car and fleeing the scene.

Under cross-examination, Mr Ghonsol said he washed his blood-stained clothes soon after returning home. He said one of his assailants had a knife, which he said was 20cm long, and the other was brandishing a Fanta bottle. Asked whether there were people who saw the incident, Mr Ghonsol said he saw a number of tourists but as soon as he started yelling for help, they ran away. Replying to questions, Mr Ghonsol said he never had an argument with the accused and also denied ever owing him any money.

The case continues.

Magistrate Michael Mallia turned down the defence lawyers’ request for bail. He was remanded in custody.

Police inspectors Yvette Farrugia and Stephen Gatt prosecuted.

Dr Kris Busietta and Dr Jason Azzopardi appeared for the defendant.