Man charged with drug possession remanded in custody

Pierre Cremona, 40 of Balzan, was remanded in custody after pleading not guilty to six charges including aggravated drug possession and money laundering.

Prosecuting inspector Herman Mula explained to court how relapser Pierre Cremona was arrested on the night between the 16 and 17 May.

Police officers found a large number of sachets containing traces of cocaine in Cremona’s possession. The drug was found in circumstances denoting it was not for the accused's personal use, but had the intent to traffic.

Unlicensed weapons and ammunition were also found. The man was also charged with money laundering for making use of funds deriving from drug criminal activity.

The money was used to purchase property. The court was told that the offence was committed while Cremona was on bail.

The defence counsel asked for bail, however the prosecution heavily objected arguing the charges were not something which should be taken lightly. Inspector Mula requested that the court issues a freezing order on all assets of the accused.

Magistrate Neville Camilleri remanded the accused in custody.

Lawyers Veronique Dalli and Franco Debono appeared for the accused.