Homeless Malian who charged at officers 'actively psychotic'

The homeless Malian man who was shot by the police as he allegedly charged at them with a knife on March 30 was suffering from hallucinations and actively psychotic.

Souleymane Samake, 26, is pleading not guilty to attempted murder. He was shot after he charged at officers who discovered him living in a cave in Birżebbuġa, following reports by concerned residents.

Speaking during the compilation of evidence, psychiatrist Etienne Muscat said he examined the accused on April 4 and 5 at Mater Dei Hospital, "where he was talking to God".

He refused to accept the fact he had been shot and that he had undergone a major operation. He was also suffering from hallucinations and was actively psychotic.

Asked if his behaviour was treatable, Dr Muscat said it was difficult to say because while it could be contained in some cases, in others it could not.

Dr Joseph Spiteri, from Mount Carmel Hospital, said that Mr Samake was currently under his care in the forensic unit at the hospital.

He also could barely communicate with his patient because of the absence of an interpreter.

Magistrate Edwina Grima appointed a translator to go to Mount Carmel and translate whenever necessary. His first appointment is tomorrow.

The case continues.