An argument over money which was owed to him led Enrico Camilleri to cause bodily injuries to Malcolm Schembri, as well as threatening and injuring him with a sharp and pointed object, a police inspector told the court yesterday.

Mr Camilleri, who pleaded not guilty, was accused of attempted murder, breaching the peace and causing damages to the Boosers Bar and Revive Bar in Marsa, and to the Liberty Club in Hamrun. Mr Camilleri fled the scene and was discovered by police late at night at his home.

Speaking on behalf of the accused, Lawyer Gavin Gulia said that his client was provoked and even had to go to hospital in order to treat injuries suffered to his arms and face. Dr Gulia said that his client would lose his job if he were to spend the time in prison until the case continues.

Magistrate Myriam Hayman granted Mr Camilleri bail on a deposit of e1,500 and a personal guarantee of e3,000. Furthermore magistrate Hayman ordered Mr Camilleri not to frequent the bars in question, as well as to keep away from the localities of Marsa and Hamrun. Police inspector Joseph Agius prosecuted