A trial was briefly interrupted this morning after a heated exchange between the accused and a witness. 

Augustine Onuchukwu, 46 – a Nigerian who holds American citizenship and is also known as Fat Boy. He stands charged with association to import heroin to Malta. 

The incident took place as convicted drug courier Efosa Efionayi, 28, from Spain, was replying to questions during cross examination.

When asked by counsel about a train journey from Rotterdam to Brussels airport, from where the drug was sent, he pointed at the accused and said: "Why don't you ask him, he knows very well?"

The accused laughed sarcastically and a heated exchange in a foreign language followed.

The accused then got up and shouted at the witness. He was restrained by two policemen, who made him sit down.

The accused then removed his glasses and wiped away tears, leading the judge to suspend the sitting.

When the sitting resumed, Mr Justice Michael Mallia said:

"I understand the situation and that emotions run high, but I cannot have outbursts like that."

The accused apologised. The case continues.

This was the second day of testomy by Efionayi, who is in jail for having imported heroin in capsules in his stomach. He yesterday spoke of how a familiarisation trip to Malta was held during which he met Onuchukwu and the actual drug trip was planned.