A Birkirkara tow-truck driver has been accused of using her personal tow truck to steal cars and sell them as scrap.

Carmelo Butler, 58 from Birkirkara, was arraigned in court following a joint investigation between the Rabat, Mosta and Qawra police.

He is accused of aggravated theft.

Prosecuting inspectors said that Butler stole vehicles from Mosta, Mellieha and St Paul’s Bay. The spree, the court heard, started in November 2020.

He is accused of stealing a Hyundai from St Paul’s Bay that month, a Mercedes from Mosta in March, and a BMW from St Paul’s Bay last month. He was also charged with stealing a Kia and a Mini from St Paul’s Bay and Cirkewwa respectively recently. He also faces recidivism charges and is accused of handling stolen goods.

Butler entered a not guilty plea. His lawyer, Edward Gatt, asked for bail, but this was denied.

The prosecuting police inspectors are Godwin Scerri, George Frendo and Ryan Vella. The case is being heard before Magistrate Nadine Lia.