Man denies Paceville rape of Spanish tourist

A man residing in Guardamangia has been released on bail after being accused of the rape of a woman in St. Julians in February.

Unemployed Ahmed Hamed, 22, from Syria, was charged with rape and with committing a non-consensual act of a sexual nature with the victim during the night between 23 and 24 February.

Inspector Matthew Spagnol told Magistrate Gabriella Vella that the police had received a report from the young lady and had investigated. The accused was arrested after being identified by the victim in Paceville.

Hamed pleaded not guilty. His lawyer, Noel Bianco, requested bail, pointing out the man had cooperated fully with the police investigation.

The accused and the alleged victim had been drinking in a bar and had gone for a walk when the assault is alleged to have taken place.

Inspector Spagnol said the accused didn’t recognise the victim. The accused had no job and would go live with his cousin if granted bail, said Bianco, as he was living in shared rented accommodation at the moment.

Bail was granted on condition that he doesn’t approach the witnesses and sign a bail book twice a week. He was also ordered not to approach St Julian’s and Paceville.

The man’s cousin declared that he would provide the personal guarantee of €5,000.

A protection order was also issued in favour of the victim, banning him from going to the area where she lives and works.