Retired man charged with importing cocaine

John Grima, 60, of Hamrun was yesterday remanded in custody after he was charged with importing close to a kilogramme of cocaine and 19 grammes of cannabis on Tuesday.

The drugs were allegedly found in two large candles in a suitcase the accused was carrying before he was intercepted by Customs and police officers at the airport.

Mr Grima, who said he was retired but did not have a pension, was also charged with associating himself with others and with importing a quantity of drugs that was not for his personal use.

Defence counsels Anglu Farrugia and Edward Gatt asked for bail or house arrest in view of the age of the accused and his state of health but the court turned down the request, following objections by the prosecution fearing he could abscond.

The court ordered Mr Grima's assets to be frozen.

Police Inspector Norbert Ciappara prosecuted.