Two Somali men who have been granted humanitarian status, yesterday pleaded not guilty to charges of theft of a car and various tools.

MoussaAhmed Ayoub, 25, and Ahmed Mohammed Abdulkadir, 24, pleaded not guilty to the theft of a Datsun van parked in Albert Town in Marsa. They were also charged with stealing two electric drillers, various hand tools, a thick rope used for scaffolding and an electric grinder. They were further charged with damaging the van, being in possession of stolen items, driving without a driving licence and insurance cover and driving in a reckless manner.

The men pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them. They were remanded in custody.

Police inspector Jesmond Borg prosecuted.