Pensioner: weapons, explosives in garage were for my defence

A 66-year-old pensioner was yesterday charged with being in possession of a large amount of explosive substance used in the production of bombs, various weapons and possibly a World War II bomb.

The man told police he had the items in the eventuality that anyone would break into his house to rob or kill him, a court heard yesterday.

The items were discovered at Peter Cassar’s garage in Żejtun. The police found explosive material, three pistols, a sub machine gun, ammunition, both old and new, and what is commonly known as a booby trap.

The discovery was made during a search by the police on Saturday afternoon.

Mr Cassar had a total of 20 charges brought against him which include the unlawful possession of explosives, weapons and ammunition as well as a large bomb that is currently being examined by court experts but that could possibly be a WWII aerial bomb.

Police Inspector Carlos Cordina said Mr Cassar had told the police he feared somebody would break into his house to harm him so he was preparing for that eventuality. Two years ago Mr Cassar was found guilty of possessing illegal explosive material, the inspector said.

Magistrate Anthony Vella denied his request for bail and he was remanded in custody.

Police Inspector Carol Fabri also prosecuted while lawyer Martin Fenech appeared for the accused.