The underage driver who mowed down traffic policeman Simon Schembri in May, has been charged over a drug possession incident dating back a year.

Some three months into the compilation of evidence against Liam Debono over the attempted murder of the police officer, the prosecution filed additional charges over the incident.

Describing this move as one that was not "normal" in terms of procedural law, defence lawyer Franco Debono questioned whether any steps had been taken by the prosecution in respect of the earlier episode, which took place eight months before the Simon Schembri incident.

Facing questions under cross-examination, Inspector Spiridione Zammit confirmed that no charges had been issued since investigations were still ongoing.

Dr Debono asked who had decided to add these charges three months into the compilation of evidence, prompting Inspector Zammit to explain he had been informed by a colleague from the Drug Squad that fresh charges over the drug possession incident were to be added to the charges in the compilation.

"No reason was given. I did not ask anyone about this," the inspector continued.

The new charges concern an episode dating back to October 30, 2017 when athe young driver had been stopped during a police patrol at Luqa. He had been driving a Maruti with number plates which belonged to an Opel vehicle.

He had been spotted flinging a cigarette joint out of the window before being stopped by the police. Another four minors were passengers in the car.

Read: 'My body felt as though it was melting away': mowed-down policeman's dramatic testimony

A personal search of the youth and his car had yielded two grinders and cannabis leaves, as well as three plastic bags containing traces of the drug. A total of 12.5 grams of cannabis were seized from Mr Debono's possession during the search.

The young driver had also been driving without a licence and insurance, the court, presided over by magistrate Joseph Mifsud, was told.

During Monday’s hearing, Inspector Christabelle Chetcuti, formerly stationed at the Żabbar station, testified over another incident in March when, while on her way to work, she had come across a sergeant who had just stopped a minor who had been driving an electric bike.

That minor was Liam Debono whom the inspector had subsequently accompanied to the Żabbar police station and whom she identified in court.

Asked by Dr Debono whether that incident had anything to do with the case of PC Schembri, the witness replied “Not as far as I know.”

The case continues next week.

Inspector Fabian Fleri and Chantelle Casha prosecuted. Lawyer Amadeus Cachia was also defence counsel.