Bail denied following St Julian’s apartment beating

A 28-year-old Swedish national has appeared in court accused of grievously injuring a man inside a St Julian’s apartment during an argument over noise complaints.

Andreas Zsoka, who is currently unemployed, pleaded not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and causing the victim to fear that violence would be used against him, his property, or those close to him.

The court heard how the incident came to light on 8 September at around 8:30pm, when the victim walked into the St Julian’s police station to report the assault. Police officers noted clear facial injuries, including two heavy black eyes.

The victim told investigators that the beating took place two days earlier, on 6 September at a residence in St Julian’s. He alleged that Zsoka became enraged after receiving a call from their landlord regarding noise complaints coming from the property.

Doctors certified that the victim was suffering from serious injuries. Police officers arrested Zsoka at the apartment on 9 September.

Arguments over tenancy and bail

During the arraignment, defence lawyer Rachel Tua did not object to the validity of the arrest.

The court heard details surrounding the living arrangement in the apartment, with questions raised regarding the contract. While the court heard that both men lived at the same address, the defence noted that the alleged victim reportedly had no legal title on the rental contract and may have been residing there illegally, which may have sparked the initial argument between the two.

Requesting bail, the defence argued that Zsoka had a fixed alternative residence available and could live with his girlfriend at a separate address. She contended that there is no risk of evidence tampering, and a protection order should suffice.

Lawyer Rachel Tua further argued that Zsoka posed no flight risk, noting that he had been employed full-time until a month ago and was actively seeking work, with a job interview scheduled on Thursday.

The prosecution objected to the bail request, emphasising that the alleged victim had not yet testified in court. The court heard how the alleged victim was immensely scared when he filed the report, alleging that Zsoka had threatened him with further consequences if he reported the incident to the police.

After considering both parties’ submissions, bail was denied.

Inspector James Turner prosecuted, together with AG lawyer Kristina Bartolo. Lawyer Rachel Tua appeared as legal aid.

Magistrate Nadia-Helena Vella presided over the arraignment.