An Indian man who stole a gold ring from former Labour Deputy Prime Minister Wistin Abela, now wheelchair-bound, yesterday apologised to him outside the courtroom.

Pillai Sivasankara, from Msida, admitted to stealing the €2,300-ring from Mr Abela, 79, in Our Lady of Sorrows Street in Żejtun last October, when he also tried to steal his watch.

Mr Sivasankara, who was also accused of harassing people through begging and carrying a false ID card, yesterday admitted to stealing the ring.

Police Inspector Tony Cachia informed Magistrate Saviour Demicoli that the ring could not be found despite several attempts.

Lawyer Owen Bonnici, appearing for Mr Abela, said his client was prepared to forgive the defendant but he wanted the ring back. He was also willing to accept money to have a similar ring made.

The magistrate postponed judgment for a month to give more time for the ring to be traced.

Lawyer Lara Dimitrijevic appeared for Mr Sivasankara.

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