Charged with defaming judge

The brother of a man standing trial for arson was yesterday charged with defaming the judge presiding over the trial.

Carmelo Bugeja, 55, of Zabbar pleaded not guilty to uttering words with the intention to damage the reputation of Mr Justice Joseph Galea Debono in court yesterday morning.

Police Inspector Ramon Mercieca arraigned Bugeja a few hours after Mr Justice Galea Debono ordered the police to investigate allegations that Bugeja was heard saying he would "go get him".

Bugeja, who was represented by Dr Tony Abela, was granted bail on the condition he does not approach the town where the judge lives and does not approach the court building during his brother's trial. He was bound by a deposit of Lm150.

The trial of Bugeja's brother, Saviour, has now reached its final stages.

Bugeja, 47, of Zejtun is standing trial for arson, when he set fire to the main door of Joseph Gafá, who was his superior at the drydocks, on March 28, 2000. He is also charged with endangering neighbouring buildings in which there were people and damaging Gafá's property.