Steven Bezzina, 26, and his father Joseph Bezzina, 58, both residents in Qormi, have been charged with assaulting Ephriam Bezzina, also a resident in the locality.

Inspector Roderick Aguis explained that the accused have been harassing Mr Bezzina for long and yesterday evening, another dispute between the three men ended up in a fight.  As a result, Ephriam Bezzina was seriously injured, and two medical certificates were presented in court.

The two men have been granted bail against a deposit of €500 each and a personal guarantee of €2,00 each.  They have been ordered to sign the bail book three times a week and to be home by 10pm every day.

They have also signed a protection order, agreeing not to approach or contact the third party.

Lawyer Yanica Caruana represented the accused. Magistrate Charmaine Galea presided.