Two bouncers were remanded in custody yesterday after pleading not guilty to seriously injuring a man who had to have a metal plate inserted in his jaw to support it.

The incident took place in the bathrooms of the Havana nightclub on Monday night.

Kevin Mallia, a 37-year-old unemployed chef from Sliema, and Aaron Vella, 25, from Mosta, denied injuring the victim and his friend, assaulting them and breaching the peace.

Mr Mallia was also accused of working as a bouncer without having a licence and Mr Vella, who holds a licence, was accused of using excessive force.

Both men were also accused of relapsing.

Police Inspector Luke Bonello told Magistrate Miriam Hayman that the victim had to be operated upon immediately for serious facial injuries and that the two bouncers had a history of similar cases.

He opposed a request for bail in view of the seriousness of the crime and because several witnesses still had to testify.

Magistrate Hayman denied the accused’s request for bail and remanded both accused in custody.

Lawyers Anġlu Farrugia, Paul Borg and Clifton Grima appeared for Mr Mallia.

Lawyers Edward Zammit Lewis and Marouska Debono appeared for Mr Vella.