A hunter was yesterday cleared of trying to kill another hunter in an argument over territory four years ago.

In a trial by jury, Carmelo Sultana, 42, of Attard was found not guilty by seven votes to two of attempted murder but guilty of slightly injuring the victim, Constantine Borg, which was excusable because he had acted in self -defence.

He was also found not guilty by six votes to two of the illegal possession of a pen-knife.

The trial, which began on Monday, was characterised by conflicting testimony given by the victim and his alleged aggressor, which saw them blame each other for starting a fight over hunting territory on April 15, 2006 in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq.

Mr Sultana testified that he was attacked by Mr Borg who hit him on the head with a gun and he only decided to brandish a knife when he realised the attack would not stop and so reacted in self-defence.

Mr Borg claimed he had been attacked first, having wondered into a field looking for quail and hearing Mr Sultana swear at him just before a fight ensued.

Senior Counsel to the Republic Aaron Bugeja prosecuted.

Lawyers Emmanuel Mallia and Arthur Azzopardi appeared for Mr Sultana.

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