A 22-year-old man from Kirkop yesterday pleaded not guilty to robbing a 77-year-old woman in her house in Birzebbuga.

Justin Polidano, 22, was accused of stealing cash and jewellery to the detriment of Dolores Balzia, of holding her against her will, using violence to threaten her, damaging her property and handling stolen goods. He was also accused of breaching the conditions of the previous court judgement.

Before magistrate Antonio Mizzi, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.

Police Inspectors Carmelo Magri and Johann Fenech prosecuted while Dr Franco Debono appeared for the accused.