Iddrisu Faisal, a 34-year-old plasterer from Ghana, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of 73-year-old Joe Bartolo (known as il-Babakku) and 56-year-old Carmen Abela in Marsa. The tragic incident occurred in a garage on Triq it-Tiġrija following a heated argument, during which the victims were reportedly attacked with large scissors.
Faisal, who previously resided on the farm where the crime took place, was swiftly apprehended with the help of a Nigerian couple allegedly injured by him, including a woman who sustained severe injuries. He appeared composed during the court proceedings, where he faced charges including wilful murder, attempted murder, assault, resisting arrest, and property damage.
Legal aid lawyer Joseph Brincat did not seek bail for the accused, and the prosecution requested a protection order for witnesses yet to testify. Magistrate Abigail Critien granted this request, extending protection to the injured parties and members of the Bartolo and Abela families.
Prosecutors, including AG lawyers Ramon Bonett Sladden and Kaylie Bonett, along with Inspector Wayne Camilleri, are handling the case. Lawyers Jason Azzopardi and Kris Busietta are representing the Bartolo and Abela families.
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