Two charged with violating financial regulations

Two Syrian men who were allegedly caught with a total of €30,570 (Lm13,120) in cash when trying to leave the island were yesterday charged with not declaring the money.

Olian Ali Chikh, 34, and Kasem Al Awad, 43, were charged with not declaring the money when trying to leave the island.

Mr Kasem, who pleaded not guilty, was allegedly found with €17,000 (Lm7,296.17) and $2,100 (Lm584.29) in his possession and was granted bail against a personal guarantee of €1,000 (Lm429.18) and a deposit of €150 (Lm64.37).

Mr Olian, who was represented by lawyer Marion Camilleri and Franco Debono, pleaded guilty to the charges and was fined €890 (Lm381.97).

Magistrate Audrey Demicoli took into consideration the fact that by law an individual is allowed to leave the country with a maximum of €10,000 (Lm4,291.84). Dr Camilleri told the court her client had been found with €13,570 (Lm5, 824) and $450, so any fine imposed should be calculated on the amount which in excess.

The court confiscated the money in excess of the amount allowed by law.

Police Inspector Maurice Curmi prosecuted.

Lawyer Stephen Tonna Lowell and Joseph Giglio appeared for Mr Kasem.