A Marsascala man yesterday pleaded not guilty to committing usury, by receiving money with interest, from people to whom he had loaned a sum of money.

Anthony Borg, 36, pleaded not guilty to committing this offence this month and during previous months.

He was charged with receiving funds with interest, from Nicholas Farrugia and Eleno Cassar; and with frightening them by telling them violence would be used against them, their property or members of their family.

The accused also pleaded not guilty to relapsing.

He was granted bail against a personal guarantee of Lm2,000 and a deposit of Lm1,000.

Magistrate Audrey Demicoli presided over the court.

Police Inspector Ian Joseph Abdilla prosecuted.