Man guilty of selling counterfeit shoes

Papa Kamane Dieye, 31, was remanded in custody pending final judgement after he pleaded guilty to selling counterfeit items at the Marsaxlokk market on Sunday.

A Birzebbugia resident, Dieye said he could not recall the details of his address. For a short time he worked in road construction and asphalting. After having his job terminated he met another foreigner who sold him 12 pairs of counterfeit Nike trainers for around €11 each.

Yesterday, Dieye was apprehended at the Marsaxlokk market trying to sell the counterfeit trainers. Questioned by the police, he admitted he did not have a hawker's permit and he had only managed to sell two pairs at €15 per pair. The rest of the shoes were seized by the police.

Legal aid lawyer Dorianne Vella told the court the accused was pleading guilty as charged but requested bail until final judgement is delivered next Thursday. However prosecuting inspector Johann Fenech objected to the request arguing Dieye had no ties with Malta and is in possession of an Italian residence permit.

Magistrate Gabriella Vella denied bail to the accused stating that since the court was not aware of his actual residential address, there was the fear the accused could abscond.

Final judgement is expected to be delivered on Thursday at 9:30am.

Inspector Johann Fenech prosecuted while Legal Aid lawyer Dorianne Vella appeared for the accused.