Two men, one of whom is a Chinese who is presently serving a prison sentence, were yesterday charged with participating in human trafficking and in organised crime.

Emanuel Borg, 33, from Kappara and inmate Lin Yi were charged after a European Arrest Warrant was issued against them by the Italian authorities in connection with human trafficking.

Before magistrate Miriam Hayman, the men pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them. The men were charged following a request for their extradition so they could be tried in connection with these charges.

Defence lawyer Martin Fenech requested the court to grant the men bail. Opposing the request, Senior Counsel to the Republic Donatella Frendo Dimech insisted that the men should not be granted bail in view of the serious charged brought against them. She said the men are facing a maximum of 23 years in jail if found guilty.

Magistrate Hayman turned down the request for bail and the two men were remanded in custody.

Dr Martin Fenech appeared for the men.