Oliver Vella, 36, was today granted bail against a personal guarantee of €15,000 after he was charged with aggravated possession of cocaine.

The accused resides in the UK. He was brought over to Malta after a European Arrest Warrant was issued. The case happened some 10 years ago when he was 26 years old.

The court upheld a request from the lawyers of the accused to present proof that the man has turned over a new leaf. His lawyers told the court that their client helps drug addicts kick the habit.

Mr Vella had served time in Venezuela for drug-related offences as well.

Lawyers Michael and Lucio Schriha defended the accused while Magistrate Natasha Sciberras presided over the case. Police Inspector Nezren Grixti prosecuted.