The man who was allegedly behind two armed robberies at pharmacies in Iklin and Naxxar was today remanded in custody almost 24 hours after the second theft. He pleaded not guilty.

Stephen James Falzon, 42, residing in Balzan, and currently unemployed, was charged on two separate counts of aggravated theft, of holding victims against their will, being in possession of an unlicenced firearm at the time of the hold-ups and of causing his victims to fear violence.

On February 21 at around 7pm, the man, who is also a relapser, had allegedly entered a pharmacy in Giovanni Curmi Street, Iklin and, armed with a firearm, demanded the pharmacist to hand over cash.

The second hold-up took place yesterday at around 12.30pm when Mr Falzon allegedly burst into a pharmacy in 21st September Avenue, Naxxar and demanded cash at gunpoint. At the time there were two female and one male cashier.

Although the accused pleaded not guilty, the defence did not request bail but recommended that the prosecution summon its witnesses without unnecessary delay.

Inspectors Carlos Cordina, James Grech and Elton Taliana prosecuted. Lawyer Chris Chircop was legal aid.