A Sicilian national with an expensive drug habit has been handed a seven-year jail term after he admitted to multiple charges of theft and damage to third party property exceeding €100,000 in value.

Carmelo Ciranna, 41, committed nine cases of aggravated theft and several others of damage to third party property over a two-month span between December and January.

The court, presided by Magistrate Joe Mifsud, heard how the accused had targeted various private residences in Birkirkara, Attard, Marsascala and Żabbar and a service station in Qormi.

The booty included expensive jewellery, cash, designer watches and bag, a camera, a Samsung TV, two laptops and two car batteries worth €500.

The court noted that the accused, who pleaded guilty to all the charges, was a relapser and had also violated two probation sentences.

The court remarked that all those visiting Malta, whether for work or leisure, "ought to abide strictly by our laws".

Although those who ignore the law are a minority, the court urged the authorities to wield power in such a way as to treat these wrongdoers with a firm hand, even taking "drastic measures" when necessary.

The court concluded by declaring the accused guilty and condemned him to a seven-year jail term. It ordered the repatriation of the accused after serving his prison term.

The man was also ordered to pay €1,239.47 by way of court expenses.

Inspectors Kurt Zahra, Christabelle Chetcuti and Elton Taliana prosecuted. Lawyer Noel Bartolo was legal aid. Lawyer Jason Azzopardi appeared parte civile.