A 25-year-old man from Msida was remanded in custody this afternoon after pleading not guilty to defiling and engaging in sexual acts with three girls, aged 17,16 and 12.

The man, whose name cannot be published by order of the court, was arrested yesterday and charged with participating in sexual activities with the minors and with possession and distribution of child pornography.

Magistrate Doreen Clarke heard that the sexual activities consisted of kissing and touching the underage girls. Other circumstances of the case were not revealed in court.

One girl is the daughter of the man's current partner, while the other girls are her friends who live in the vicinity.

Defence lawyer Franco Debono argued that the defilement of the 16 and 17-year-old was “superficial,” pointing out that there is currently a debate in parliament about lowering the age of consent. He said there was "only touching" involved.

Dr Debono, however, conceded that the court was bound by the present law and the present age of consent which currently stands at 18 years.

Dr Debono and lawyer Marion Camilleri, who also appeared for the man, requested bail for their client but the prosecution, led by Police Inspectors Joseph Busuttil and Roderick Agius, strongly objected.

The inspectors said the three girls live in the area where the man lives and there was a risk of contamination of evidence. Inspector Agius said the girls were "very scared", even when talking to the police.

Magistrate Clarke denied the request and ordered that the man be remanded in custody.