A witness in a case against Joseph Fenech (Zeppi l-ħafi) and his son-in-law Norbert Falzon, spent 45 minutes in the court lock-up today after a Magistrate decided that he was lying under oath.

Fenech and Falzon stand accused of damaging a car and slightly injuring Paul Spiteri in a fight on October 14, 2010.

The witness, Sylvester James, of Hamrun, looked uncomfortable as he took the witness stand, and even before being asked, said he knew nothing about the case.

When he was asked about the version of events, he could not remember basic  details.

Magistrate Anthony Vella ordered his arrest for lying under oath and refusing to answer questions. He told him that some time in the lock-up cell might help him recall what had taken place.

Mr James was taken back to the court 45 minutes later. He said that on the day in question, Mr Spiteri and himself went to Mr Falzon's shop to get a car stereo repaired.

There was an argument between Mr Spiteri and Mr Falzon in which Mr Spiteri swore at Mr Falzon who then in turn slapped him slightly on the face. He said that Mr Fenech had nothing to do with this fight and had simply shown the door to both him and his friend. He then insisted that Mr Fenech had nothing to do with the argument.

The case continues.