Third arraignment over gaming hold-ups

A third person was yesterday arraigned in connection with the string of hold-ups that took place in April on gaming outlets across Malta. Gilbert Busuttil, 23, of Sta Venera pleaded not guilty to taking part in four hold-ups and one attempted hold-up...

A third person was yesterday arraigned in connection with the string of hold-ups that took place in April on gaming outlets across Malta.

Gilbert Busuttil, 23, of Sta Venera pleaded not guilty to taking part in four hold-ups and one attempted hold-up and making off with €15,000.

Mr Busuttil denied carrying out the armed robberies on April 4 at the gaming arcade Fairplay in San Ġwann; on April 7 at Fairplay in Birkirkara; on April 17 at Ambassador in Qawra and on April 19 at Playline in Marsa. He also denied attempting a hold-up at Fairplay in Paola on April 21 and to holding the various employees of the arcades at gunpoint.

Mr Busuttil's arraignment follows two other admissions for the same crime. Accomplices Bashir Abu Gasem Al Hariri, 35, and Martin Cassar, 29, both pleaded guilty and were this week jailed for four years and six-and-a-half years respectively.

The police are expected to arraign a woman in connection with the case later this week.

Lawyers José Herrera and Veronique Dalli appeared for Mr Busuttil.

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