Kept under arrest over misdemeanour

A Palestinian man accused of stealing a computer is being kept in custody after attempting suicide and attacking doctors and police officials.

Habib Mohammed Shedi Hamdi, 24, was charged with stealing a computer on January 3 from a private residence on Nazju Ellul street, Gżira.

The Palestinian pleaded not guilty, and asked to be freed from all allegations.

Police Inspector Anna Marie Micallef objected to the victim’s plea and said the accused should remain under police custody for his own and the community’s sake.

Ms Micallef said personal details provided by the accused were not reliable.

Defence lawyer Simon Micallef Stafrace said Mr Shedi Hamdi allegedly accused police officials of physical violence.

Magistrate Doreen Clarke appointed Dr Mario Scerri to report on Mr Shedi Hamdi’s health, and ordered the accused to remain under arrest in the Forensic unit at Mount Carmel hospital.