A man of Turkish nationality, aged 33, on Wednesday was accused of causing slight injuries to his former partner during an argument on Triq l-Ghabex, Swieqi.

The court was told the incident occurred after the woman attended a football game and did not inform him.

Police inspector Antonello Magri informed the court that in the afternoon of 3 March, the police were notified of an argument happening in a road in Swieqi.

Magri said the victim suffered injuries and the accused was arrested at his residence.

The man was charged with causing minor injuries to the woman and causing voluntary damage to property, with an amount exceeding €250 but not €1,300.

The accused resides at a hotel, where works he as a chef.

The court heard that there was allegedly another episode where the accused hit her but she forgave him.

Defence lawyers requested bail and the prosecution objected on the basis that the victim has not yet testified, that he might flee Malta and out of fear that he may contact the victim.

Defence lawyer Scerri Herrera told the court that his client has been living Malta for more than three years. He also told the court the accused should not be put in prison when his accusations do not carry a prison sentence.

The man was denied bail on basis of the fear that the accused might leave Malta.

The court, presided by Magistrate Nadia Helena Vella, ordered a ban on the publication of names and a protection order was also granted to the victim by the court.

Defence lawyer Alex Scerri Herrera is representing the accused. Inspector Antonello Magri prosecuted. Defence lawyer Franco Debono and Marion Camilleri appeared parte civile.