Two Italians and a Maltese man were remanded in custody after pleading not guilty to drug trafficking in connection with Malta's biggest-ever drug haul.

Rudolph Said, 35, from Fgura, was arraigned this morning together with 60-year old Angelo Penna and 42-year old Cristofaro Paratore, both from Catania.

The three were among five arrested on Thursday night as police seized 530 kilos of cannabis resin and 20 kilos of cannabis buds, as well as €200,000 in cash, hidden in two Italian registered trucks and a Maltese-registered car. The total market value of the haul is several millions.

Investigations revolving the two other men, both Slovenian nationals, arrested in relation to the charge, are still ongoing.

All three men were charged with conspiring to sell or traffic illegal drugs, as well as possession. Mr Penna, who owned the trucks where the largest part of the haul was found, and Mr Paratore were both also charged with money laundering offences.

Appearing separately before Magistrate Grezzio Mercieca, all three pled not guilty but were remanded in custody.

Lawyers Roberto Montalto, Mario Mifsud and Franco Debono appeared for Mr Said.

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