Bulgarian national Raynov Rumen Zhivkov, 37, was charged in court today with threatening and assaulting two of his flat mates following an argument that broke out at their Gzira home.

Mr Zhivkov – a retired Bulgarian high ranking anti-terrorism police officer  - pleaded not guilty to attacking Plamen and Dimitar Genov and seriously injuring Plamen on April 11.

The accused was arraigned today on his own request since another flat mate, Velislav Terziev, had to give evidence before leaving Malta for good.

The witness, also Bulgarian, explained that on the day in question they went grocery shopping with Mr Zhivkov.

When they returned home with their shopping bags they asked Plamen to remove his art brushes and papers from the kitchen table. He refused and, eventually, a fight broke out.

Mr Terziev said he saw the Mr Genov kick Mr Zhivkov, who tried to shield himself with his arms.

The accused was granted bail against no condition, given that the arraignment took place under arrest to hear the witness.