A 22-year-old man was charged with trying to break into a Santa Venera house on Saturday night after police received a report that a group of men were lurking “suspiciously” outside.

The Qormi man was also charged with forcing his way in to a Birkirkara home on Friday and stealing several objects. He admitted the charges but pleaded not guilty to conspiring with others to commit several burglaries.

Police inspectors Arthur Mercieca and Sarah Magri yesterday told Magistrate Natasha Galea Sciberras that when police spoke to the men they claimed they were out for a walk.

The man's car was searched and officers found two screwdrivers and other items that could have been used in burglaries, such as hats and scarves.

Other people were being investigated, the officers said.

Lawyer Anthony Stellini requested bail saying he believed prison would be “psychologically detrimental” to his client.

The prosecution objected and the court remanded the accused in police custody given the nature of the crime and the fear that he could tamper with evidence.

This article was amended on July 26, 2023 following a data privacy request. For more information contact editor@timesofmalta.com.