A 37-year-old man was remanded in custody on Monday after being arraigned over non-consensual sexual acts and harassment against residents at a care facility for persons with disabilities.

Indian national Kota Satyanarayana Murthy Sattineedi, who resides in St. Paul's Bay, appeared before the court facing charges of committing non-consensual sexual offenses and harassment against vulnerable individuals.

The court heard that the alleged offenses took place between 11 August and 22 August 2026 at Dar Iris in Żabbar, a community residential home for persons with disabilities operated with support from Aġenzija Sapport.

Sattineedi was charged with committing non-consensual sexual acts repeatedly against a vulnerable person, as well as subjecting another resident to harassment and unwanted sexual conduct. Upon his arraignment, the accused entered a plea of not guilty to all charges brought against him.

The defence submitted a request for bail, pointing out that Sattineedi has lived in Malta for three years, holds a valid residence permit, and was employed prior to his arrest. The defence argued that there was no risk of tampering with evidence or approaching the victims, noting that the victims reside at Dar Iris and are therefore confined to the care facility.

The prosecution objected to bail, saying that the victims have yet to testify in court. Prosecuting lawyers argued that the accused lacks sufficient ties to Malta, raising a genuine fear that he could abscond or fail to comply with court orders if released.

The court rejected the request for bail agreeing with the prosecution, that apart from the victims still needing to testify, the accused's lack of sufficient ties to the country, presents a risk of absconding.

The prosecution was led by Angele Vella from the Attorney General's Office, alongside Inspectors Ryan Vella and Hannah Harmer. 

This case was presided over by Magistarte Caroline Farrugia Frendo