A former football coach of a local team has been charged with theft, after a DNA test on a cigarette butt found on site matched with his.

33-year-old Dejan Petkovic, a plasterer, was charged with stealing more than €2,400 in cash and cigarettes from the Melita Gardens Cafeteria in Salina. He also caused more than €2,500 in damage to the cafeteria as well as to vending machines.  The theft took place early on January 13.

The inspectors said the Serb had been investigated over a theft of cigarettes and alcohol from a kiosk in Qawra on January 27.

It was the DNA that linked him to the two thefts.

Lawyer Leontine Calleja appeared for the man. Magistrate Charmaine Galea presided.