A drug addict who stole items belonging to swimmers at Golden Bay last Wednesday has been placed on probation for three years

Freeport employee Roderick Tabone admitted to the theft., which included a handbag which contained an iPhone.

He also pleaded guilty to relapsin .

Lawyers Franco Debono and Amadeus Cachia told Magistrate Claire Stafrace Zammit that their client had a serious drug addiction and was willing to address it.

The magistrate placed Mr Tabone on probation for three years ordered him to follow a drug rehabilitation programme. 

Inspectors Nicholas Vella and Mark Mercieca prosecuted.