A man and his daughter yesterday were charged with their involvement in helping people leave Malta illegally.

The 59-year-old, Anthony Abdilla, and his daughter Dorianne, 26, yesterday pleaded not guilty to the crime. Mr Abdilla was charged with helping people flee Malta while his daughter was accused of complicity in the crime.

The court heard defence attorney Dr Joseph Brincat lodge a request for bail. Prosecuting inspectors Jeffrey Cilia and Josric Mifsud objected on the grounds that some of the key witnesses live in the vicinity of both accused.

Presiding magistrate Anthony Vella granted bail against a Lm15,000 personal guarantee each. He explained that this money will only have to be paid if any of the bail conditions are breached. The magistrate also ordered them to be placed under house arrest.