A drug addict who allegedly stole an elderly woman’s handbag while walking in Gżira on Monday evening was yesterday remanded in custody after a magistrate said he was not trustworthy.

Clifton Attard, 24, from Msida, pleaded not guilty to snatching 71-year-old Carmela Apap’s handbag, slightly injuring her and attempting to withdraw cash using her bank card.

Police Inspector James Grech told Magistrate Ian Farrugia a man witnessed the entire incident and supplied details. CCTV footage from the ATM was also used.

He said the accused had a drug addiction but Mr Attard interjected saying he was “clean at the moment”.

Defence lawyers Franco Debono and Marion Camilleri asked for bail, arguing the prosecution should have brought its witnesses to court to testify at the first sitting.

However, Magistrate Farrugia ruled that, considering the seriousness of the crime and Mr Attard’s criminal record, he was not trustworthy and there was a real concern he would tamper with evidence.

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