A man who escaped from the Safi immigrants’ detention centre was yesterday charged with stealing a handbag from a woman in St Julian’s.

Hasan Hatar, 28, from Chad, was charged with stealing Tracie Graham’s handbag at 4.45am on Wednesday. He was also charged with holding Ms Graham against her will and receiving stolen goods. Furthermore, he was charged with threatening police officers outside the St Julian’s police station.

Before magistrate Giovanni Grixti, the man pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him. He was remanded in custody.

Police Inspector Carlo Ellul prosecuted while Dr Patrick Valentino appeared for the accused.