A man who allegedly raped his former girlfriend was yesterday remanded in custody after pleading not guilty to the charge.

The 34-year-old man, who cannot be named by court order, allegedly raped the woman on Saturday at around 11 p.m. at her apartment in Buġibba. Defence lawyer Mark Busuttil told Magistrate Joseph Apap Bologna that he knew the alleged victim, had represented her in the past and knew what type of person she was.

The magistrate, however, said he did not want any comments of the sort to be passed.

Police Inspector told the court that the couple had a five-year on and off relationship. Dr Busuttil said the woman had sex with his client, they then had an argument and she ran to the police to make a report.

The police, by law, had their hands tied and had to prosecute.

Magistrate Apap Bologna remanded the accused in custody because of the seriousness of the charge.