The court, however, said that it believed the version of events given by the victim and two neighbours who corroborated her story. It turned out that Ms Ebejer was in a scuffle with a certain Caroline Bianco, when the accused began to beat her

severely.

Chief Justice De Gaetano said that, frankly, he did not believe the stories of Bianco and Azzopardi. “In fact, without any stuttering, these two gave false evidence and this court will order criminal action to be taken against them,” he said.

However, the Chief Justice said that the punishment given to Azzopardi was excessive, especially bearing in mind that he had not started the fight. It was reduced to 10 months’ imprisonment. However, charges of perjury were filed against both Azzopardi and Bianco (now Mangion) following the appeal.

They were both accused of perjury and making a false statement. The case continues.

The court was presided over by Chief Justice Vincent De Gaetano.

Police inspector Carlo Ellul prosecuted.