A 28-year-old man from Birkirkara was yesterday charged with heroin trafficking after he allegedly tried selling the drug to a 17-year-old boy.

Kevin Spiteri was also accused of being in possession of heroin which was found in circumstances denoting it was not for his personal use. He was further charged with cannabis possession and with threatening the teenager whose name cannot be published since he is still a minor.

Before magistrate Jacqueline Padovani, Mr Spiteri pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him. The magistrate turned down his request for bail and he was remanded in custody.

The magistrate also ordered the prosecution to summon the teenager to testify in court at the next sitting.

Police Inspectors Norbert Ciappara and Ramon Mercieca prosecuted. Dr Chris Cardona appeared for the defendant.