A shipyard worker who has been allegedly identified as the suspect behind a knife attack in St Julian’s has been remanded in custody. The court heard that two knives were found in his possession, with one hidden up his sleeve and the other tucked away inside his sock.

The suspect, identified as Adem Katircioglu, a 30-year-old Turkish national residing in San Ġwann, was identified through CCTV footage from the site of the aggression near St Rita steps in St Julian’s. The incident took place in the early morning hours of November 12.

The prosecution revealed that police officers swiftly responded to the scene upon receiving the report and managed to apprehend the suspect. During a personal search, two knives were discovered, with one concealed up his sleeve and the other concealed in one of his socks.

Furthermore, an eyewitness positively identified a bag found nearby as the one carried by the alleged aggressor. The victim, who sustained injuries in the attack, was immediately rushed to the hospital where he remained for approximately 30 hours.

In the meantime, investigations commenced, and the suspect was released on police bail for a brief period while the police analyzed CCTV footage from the crime scene. The footage reportedly provided clear evidence of the accused’s intent to kill the victim, as stated by prosecuting Inspector Nico Zarb.

Additionally, third parties came forward and informed the police that they had also been subjected to attacks by the same suspect. However, it is important to note that these incidents have not been directly linked to the knife attack in St Julian’s.

During the court hearing, the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him. Magistrate Ian Farrugia presided over the case and subsequently remanded the suspect in custody. The defence lawyer, Leontine Calleja, representing the accused, did not request bail at this stage.

Furthermore, lawyers Shazoo Ghaznavi and Jessica Formosa appeared as parte civile, representing the interests of the victim.