Updated 9am with attack details

Entrepreneur Hugo Chetcuti is in critical condition after being stabbed in Paceville on Friday night.

The police on Saturday confirmed there was a stabbing in an establishment in Triq Santa Rita corner with Triq San Ġorġ at 10.30pm.

According to sources, the attack was carried out after the suspect went to "hug" the victim in front of a boutique hotel before extracting a knife and stabbing him in the stomach. The attack was witnessed by several individuals.

Mr Chetcuti, 52, was rushed to hospital where he was operated upon and is currently in the Intensive Therapy Unit. He underwent major surgery and on Saturday night a source said his condition had stabilised. 

A 36-year-old Serb national was arrested after a chase from Paceville and which culminated in Sliema, close to Saint James Hospital. Some police officers were slightly injured by the alleged aggressor, who also attacked the police at one point and had to be tasered. 

The alleged aggressor was also taken to Mater Dei Hospital after sustaining some injuries during the chase. After he was released from hospital, he was taken to the police headquarters for questioning and was arraigned later on Saturday morning.

An inquiry is being held.

Mr Chetcuti runs a number of establishments in Paceville including entertainment venues and a hotel.

Photo: Mark Zammit Cordina