Alleged drug dealer arrested after 'chance sighting'

A vigilant drug squad policeman yesterday told a court how a chance sighting of a man known to the drug squad led to his arrest after some 10 grams of heroin were found in his possession.

Testifying before magistrate Lawrence Quintano, PC Trevor Cassar Mallia yesterday said he was distributing court summons at Hal-Far when by sheer coincidence he spotted Aaron Axisa, whom the police suspected was dealing in drugs.

Mr Axisa, 24, of Zejtun, is pleading not guilty to charges of trafficking in heroin and being in possession of drugs in circumstances denoting it was not for his personal use.

The constable said he parked his car and watched from a distance. After a short while he saw a blue Fiat Regata approaching Mr Mifsud's car, and the two drivers "made contact". The policeman said he then radioed for help and followed Mr Mifsud's car through Gudja. Another police car caught up with the accused and as the suspect stopped at a roadside bar, the police entered the outlet and searched Mr Mifsud. A container with heroin as well as a plastic bag with a small amount of heroin were found in his possession.

Police Inspector Dennis Theuma, who is prosecuting, gave an overview of how Mr Axisa was interrogated and how the police went about the operation.

Lawyers Franco Debono and Charmaine Cherrett are appearing for the accused.

Dr Debono asked the court to consider granting the accused bail on condition that he joined a drug rehabilitation programme straightaway as "he needs a lot of help".

The case continues.