A man from Qormi today was arraigned in court and accused of illegally importing firearms.

26-year-old James Azzopardi was caught carrying seven shotguns and 20 cartridges.

The court, presided by Magistrate Josette Demicoli, heard how the accused committed this crime while he was under a community service period.

Azzopardi was arrested on 3 February. He was found carrying four shotguns while another three were found on a boat, the MV Saint Roch.

He was also accused of driving a car without a licence.

The accused pleaded not guilty for the charges brought against him.

The defence, led by lawyers Franco Debono, Lucio Sciriha and Angie Muscat, requested the court to free Mr Azzopardi.

They argued that the police themselves believe that Azzopardi can be freed as he was already released on police bail.

The prosecution, led by Inspector Saviour Baldacchino, confirmed complete cooperation by the accused during police bail.

Magistrate Demicoli upheld the defence’s request for bail after it observed that the accused followed the conditions imposed.

The court ruled that the accused should not be allowed to leave the country.

He was ordered to pay a personal guarantee of €8,000.