A man was yesterday charged with violently and indecently sexually assaulting four boys during 2005 and 2006 as well as defiling the underage children.

The man, 37, from Qormi, was charged with defiling and committing violent indecent assault on the four boys. He was also charged with holding the children against their will and forcing them to do indecent acts which offend their sex.

Behind closed doors, Magistrate Antonio Mizzi heard the man plead not guilty to the charges brought against him. He was granted bail against a personal guarantee of Lm5,000.

Police Inspector Louise Calleja prosecuted while Dr Robert Abela appeared for the defendant.