A 43-year-old man from Birżebbuġa has been remanded in custody after being charged with the non-consensual sexual assault of a woman in a garage. The court heard that the incident allegedly took place in a garage filled with dogs after the victim refused to enter into a relationship with the accused.
Appearing before Magistrate Claire Stafrace Zammit, the accused, identified as Zahra, pleaded not guilty to the charges. The victim, who resides at the Ħal Far Open Centre, was allegedly subjected to sexual acts against her will.
Details of the Allegations
The prosecution detailed that this was not an isolated attempt. The accused allegedly tried to assault the woman a second time, but the victim managed to stop him. It is further alleged that Zahra struck her in the mouth before allowing her to leave the premises.
The Court has since issued a protection order for the victim, who is scheduled to testify regarding the events.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Objection
The Defense requested bail, arguing that the accused provides care for his mother, who suffers from a medical condition. However, the Prosecution strongly objected, citing the gravity of the offenses and the fact that the accused allegedly breached two separate bail decrees related to other pending cases.
After considering the nature of the crimes and the risk of witness interference, Magistrate Stafrace Zammit denied the request for bail and ordered that the man be held in preventative custody.
The Prosecution was led by Inspectors Wayne Buhagiar, Marshal Mallia, and Antonello Magri, alongside Dr. Jurgen Dalli from the Office of the Attorney General. Lawyer Conrad Borg Manche represented the defendant.
