A man pleaded not guilty to being in possession of 13 sachets of heroin on Monday in Msida.

When he appeared before Magistrate Marseann Farrugia, Denis Cremona, 36, of Marsa, denied he had heroin in circumstances denoting the drug was not for his personal use. He also pleaded not guilty to committing the crime within 100 metres of a school.

Police Inspector Jason Sultana did not object to a request for bail as there were no witnesses to hear.

Defence lawyer Jason Grima said his client was on social benefits and was supporting two children and his elderly mother. He also had a drug addiction.

Mr Cremona was arrested at Charlie’s Guesthouse and police allege they found about 10 grams in his room. The prosecuting officer said Mr Cremona “almost gave us the drugs himself when we searched his room”.

Magistrate Farrugia granted bail against a personal guarantee of €10,000 and a deposit of €500.

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