A Latvian man, who is currently working in Malta on the construction of the new hospital, was yesterday charged with groping a 15-year-old Swedish girl in Paceville.

Viktors Barilaks, 43, was charged with defiling the minor, violently and indecently assaulting her and with committing an offence against public decency.

The offence related to his grabbing of the girl’s behind on Saturday evening at St George’s Park in Paceville.

Before magistrate Abigail Lofaro, he pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.

He was refused bail and was remanded in custody.

Police inspector Martin Sammut prosecuted.