Marsa surveillance leads to drug arrest

A 31-year-old man from Birkirkara was arraigned on Thursday, charged with possession and trafficking of cocaine, as well as driving without a valid licence and insurance.

Inspector John Leigh Howard told the court that officers had been keeping the accused under watch for a number of days prior to his arrest.

He explained that on Tuesday, police observed the man pull up and park his vehicle in Marsa.

Shortly afterwards, another car arrived and made contact with the man. At that point, officers moved in and both individuals were arrested on the spot.

A subsequent search allegedly turned up 23 packets of cocaine, amounting to around 20 grams.

Digital weighing scales were also found in the accused’s possession.

The court, presided over by Magistrate Nadia Helena Vella, also heard reference to a civilian witness who is said to have observed the alleged transaction.

It was here that prosecution and defence locked horns over the issue of witness risk.

The prosecution opposed bail, arguing there was a real risk of obstruction of justice given that a civilian witness was expected to testify.

Defence lawyer Edward Gatt interjected, saying that if the witness ultimately chooses not to testify, any concern over interference may be rendered moot.

To this, the prosecution questioned whether the defence could anticipate the exercise of the witness’s right to remain silent.

Defence lawyer Franco Debono then described the prosecution’s argument as “fallacious”, saying it was inconsistent to suggest that the mere existence of a civilian witness automatically gave rise to fears of interference.

The court granted bail against a curfew between 8pm and 5am, a €10,000 deposit and a €1,000 personal guarantee.

Inspector John Leigh Howard and Attorney General lawyer Valentina Cassar led the prosecution. Lawyers Franco Debono and Edward Gatt appeared for the defence.