An Italian man was remanded in custody yesterday after pleading not guilty to three charges of theft and damage to other people’s property.

Carmelo sive Salvatore Ciranna, 30 of Birkirkara, was accused of stealing from three residences – one in Rabat, another in Naxxar and the last in Swieqi. He was also charged with damaging the home owners’ property.

The crimes were allegedly committed between 9 and 28 January 2006 and on 13 February 2006. Ciranna was additionally accused of relapsing in view of previous convictions.

Presiding magistrate Michael Mallia refused the accused’s request for bail.

Inspectors Raymond Cassar and Joseph Mercieca prosecuted while Dr Mark Busuttil appeared for the accused.