A Naxxar man was charged in court yesterday with storing explosive material in his garage in Triq Hal-Dghejf, Naxxar, on and before Wednesday.

Vincent Borg, 52, was charged before magistrate Antonio Vella with illegally storing explosives and importing gunpowder or setting up an illegal fireworks factory.

Following the tragedy that took place on Wednesday, the police uncovered two other garages that were used as illegal stores. While one is believed to be owned by one of the victims, Borg is the owner of the other one.

Borg pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him and was granted bail against a deposit of e500 and a personal guarantee of e5,000. The court also ordered him not to approach any of the two Naxxar band clubs, the Peace Band Club or the Victoria Band Club, or any fireworks factory.

Police Inspectors Elton Taliana and Nikolai Sant prosecuted while Dr Edward Gatt and Dr Anglu Farrugia appeared for the accused.