A Sicilian plasterer allegedly hit a customer on the head with a mobile phone and broke a bone in his ear in an argument over payment.

Michele Campanella, 37, who was living in a hotel, was charged with hitting Anthony Grech with a mobile phone on Wednesday in Main Street, Mosta at about 10.30 a.m., in an argument over money owed for work.

Mr Campanella pleaded not guilty to seriously injuring Mr Grech, who is still in hospital in a stable condition, and stealing a Samsung mobile phone.

Magistrate Giovanni Grixti granted him bail against a deposit of €1,000 and a personal guarantee of €2,000 after taking into consideration the fact that he would be living with an Italian friend for the duration of the case.

Senior Police Inspector Paul Bond prosecuted.

Lawyer Gavin Gulia appeared for the accused.

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