A man who was allegedly caught red-handed shop-lifting from a supermarket in Paceville landed his flat mate in court too after police, during a search at their flat for the stolen items, also found an illegal substance, believed to be heroin.

Branko Markovic, 28, pleaded not guilty to stealing several items, including bottles of alcohol and face creams from Arcadia Supermarket in Paceville. The prosecution claimed that Mr Markovic was caught red-handed.

Later, after the incident was reported, the police carried out a search at the man’s flat in Paceville. During their search, the police found an illegal substance, suspected to be heroin. The man’s flat mate, Dejan Ciric, 33, was also arrested and charged with heroin possession.

Before Magistrate Joseph Apap Bologna, Mr Markovic and Mr Ciric pleaded not guilty to possessing heroin and were granted bail against a deposit of Lm200 and a personal guarantee of Lm500 each.

Later, during a separate arraignment, Mr Markovic pleaded not guilty to stealing the items from the supermarket but was denied bail and was remanded in custody.

Police Inspectors Martin Sammut and Carmelo Abdilla prosecuted. Dr Katia Mercieca appeared for Mr Ciric while Dr Mark Busuttil appeared for Mr Markovic.