A 23-year-old man from Fgura was yesterday charged with committing a string of thefts from various cars and shops during May, June and July 2004.

Gilbert Degabriele was charged with stealing hi-fi equipment from seven cars in May, attempting to the steal a car stereo from a car parked in Pietà and damaging the cars. The man was also charged with stealing several items of clothing from two shops in Valletta on 21 July 2004.

Before Magistrate Saviour Demicoli, Mr Degabriele pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.

Police Inspectors Alexander Grech and Anthony Portelli prosecuted while Dr Roberto Montalto appeared for the accused.