Ismael Habesh, a 38-year-old Libyan has been charged in court with the hold-ups in Swieqi and Qawra early last Sunday.

He pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody.

The police also accused him of stealing a silver Toyota Land Cruiser which was used in the hold-ups in Swieqi. It was later found in Mosta.

Informed sources said the police are looking for another two people in connection with the hold-ups.

Mr Habesh was also accused of illegal possession of a weapon and being a relapser.

The stolen items were found by the police in a street in Bugibba.

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