A 20-year-old man who was yesterday accused of assaulting a woman with the intention of raping her was remanded in custody.

Jurgen Zahra, of Żejtun, pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him.

Police Inspector Graziella Muscat said the victim was on her way home in San Ġwann yesterday at about 4 a.m. when Mr Zahra stopped his car, reversed and attacked her, tearing her trousers. He ran away as he was approached by passers-by.

The defence asked the court to grant bail to Mr Zahra, who works in construction, on condition he would not be allowed to frequent Paceville, San Ġwann and Sliema, where the victim works.

Magistrate Giovanni Grixti rejected the request and remanded the accused in custody.

Lawyer Anġlu Farrugia was defence counsel.

The case was put off to July 4.

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