Kenneth Ellul, 39, of Marsascala has been sent to 12 years in jail after he was found guilty of robbing and assaulting former Labour MP Anthony Zammit  at his home in Zebbug six years ago.

Mr Justice Lawrence Quintano said this was an 'ugly' crime and society needed to be protected from such crimes.

Earlier, the jury returned a 7-2 guilty verdict after a six-day trial.

Mr Ellul had testified that although he was “not an angel” and had made mistakes, he did not take part in the attack which involved three men.

Police arrested and charged Mr Ellul after they received information from Christopher Shepherd and Christian Ellul, who said he had told them he was involved.

Police Inspector Joseph Mercieca said the information given by the two men showed they were privy to details that were not public.

Prof. Zammit, a retired surgeon, had in his testimony also identified the defendant. He described how he was bound and beaten by the intruders, who threatened to cut off his fingers if he did not hand over cash.

SUBMISSIONS ON PUNISHMENT

In submissions on punishment, defence lawyer Josette Sultana said she was surprised by the verdict. She insisted that Mr Ellu had changed his ways and the judge should be lenient.

But prosecutor Lara Lanfranco said that while she appreciated the defence position, one could not ignore that this was a case which was ugly and could have had far worse consequences.

Mr Justice Quintano said the jurors had delivered a strong verdict which could not be ignored. People, he said, should not have to worry that they would be attacked within their own home at night. Society had to protected. While he understood the argument of the defence, the court could not ignore such ugly circumstances.