The police have managed to solve a long string of thefts and a number of cases of fraud, spanning a four-month period dating back to last October.

Matthew Camilleri, a 32-year-old Gżira resident, was charged with no fewer than 19 separate instances of theft, the majority carried out over a fortnight at the end of January.

Two other thefts dated back to October and November respectively.

The 25 charges referred to thefts, one attempted theft, and fraudulent gains targeting a variety of shops, real estate agencies, insurance company offices and a service station, located at Mosta, Sliema, Ta’ Xbiex, St Julian’s, Birkirkara, Gżira, Marsascala, Paola and San Ġwann.

The thefts involved unspecified amounts of cash, cheque books, eight laptops and other items.

The October theft had targeted a couple’s Sliema home from where jewellery and cash were stolen.

The man was also charged with recidivism.

After consultation with his lawyers, Franco Debono and Marion Camilleri, the man entered a not guilty plea and was remanded in custody.

No request for bail was made at the arraignment.

Inspectors Saviour Baldacchino, Joseph Mercieca and Colin Sheldon prosecuted.