The bomb that killed an innocent bystander in Żejtun eight years ago was detonated remotely and contained a powerful mix of one kilo of explosive and bullets, jurors in the murder trial heard yesterday.

Two court experts reconstructed how they believed the bomb was made through remnants found on the scene in Madonna tal-Ħniena Street.

Captain Jeffrey Curmi and Colonel Albert Camilleri took the witness stand in the case against Ronnie Azzopardi, who is pleading not guilty to murdering passer-by Angela Bondin on June 18, 2005.

They said they also found the remains of a light bulb at the scene. It would have been used to heat up the explosive material, which meant this had to be sensitive.

The firing switch took the form of a radio receiver similar to that used in remote control cars, which meant it was operated remotely, they testified.

Bullets were placed inside the package to increase its potency.

The bomb was made using a small fire extinguisher. It was based on ammonium nitrate, an essential part of explosives and a chemical most commonly used in fertilizers, they said.

The bomb was allegedly intended for Mr Azzopardi’s former sister-in-law Mary Rose Cassar and her three young sons.

He is also being charged with trying to kill them as well as with seriously injuring Therese Grima and damaging property.

The prosecution say Mr Azzopardi wanted to murder Ms Cassar over a Mercedes Benz left to her by her late husband.

Mr Azzopardi is currently serving a 20-year jail term for trying to kill Melchior Spiteri’s brother. Mr Spiteri had murdered Mr Azzopardi’s brother Jason and was imprisoned for 30 years.

The case continues.