A Syrian man has admitted to aiding a co-national enter Malta illegally by hiding him in the luggage boot of his car on a trip from Catania.

Ahmad Farhoud, 34, pleaded guilty to hiding Mohammed Ahmed in the boot of his Renault Megane.

The court heard how he was found hidden among rolls of toilet paper by a suspicious policeman in Malta soon after arrival. 

The prosecution and defence, in joint submissions on punishment, said a six-month suspended jail term and a €5,000 fine along with the confiscation of the vehicle would suffice.

Dr Arthur Azzopardi, who appeared for the accused, said his client apologised for his actions, saying that although the intention was good, it was an illegal act.

Magistrate Aaron Bugeja, however, ordered that a pre-sentencing report be compiled before the court rules on punishment.

In the meantime, the man was granted bail against a deposit of €2,000 and a personal guarantee of €4,000.

In a separate sitting, Mr Ahmed pleaded guilty to entering Malta illegally. He was jailed for one year suspended for three years and the court ordered his immediate deportation.