Two arraigned after €20,000 theft from businessman's house

A 23-year-old man from Buġibba and an Egyptian resident yesterday were accused of stealing just under €20,000 from a Dubai businessman's residence in Kappara last month.

Oivend Xuereb, 23, pleaded guilty to his involvement in the burglary, which also included the theft of a set of diamonds and 26 mobile phones.

Naeim Shadi Mohammed Abdel Hady, 26, denied the charges.

Lawyer David Farrugia Sacco, who appeared for Mr Xuereb, said his client had been passing through a difficult phase, including losing his job. His girlfriend had also given birth.

Police Inspector Keith Arnaud, prosecuting, said Mr Xuereb had collaborated with investigators, adding that the only conviction on his conduct sheet was involvement in a fight in 2004 for which he had been fined.

Magistrate Jacqueline Padovani rejected requests for bail pending judgment, noting that the cash and the other stolen items had not been recovered.

Mr Xuereb will be sentenced in the coming days.