Romanian pickpockets admit to 16 thefts

Two Romanian pickpockets have been remanded in custody pending judgement after pleading guilty to carrying out 16 thefts during a three-week span.

Mihaela Florin Niculae and Marian-Sorin Mihailoiu, both aged 44 and residing in Msida, admitted to stealing cash, wallets and four mobile phones between November 29 and December 11 in Sliema and Gzira.

The two also admitted to handling stolen property.

Sources close to the investigation explained that the Romanians were arrested after CCTV footage spotted them robbing a British tourist’s wallet at the Fortina Hotel in Sliema.

Informed sources explained that three Romanians – the accused and Niculae’s son – were arrested yesterday while waiting for a bus across the Sliema hotel.

During questioning, the accused admitted to carrying out 16 other thefts while a subsequent search at their home yielded four stolen mobile phones, wallets, and cash.

No evidence was found against Niculae’s son.

Police Inspector Jason Francis Sultana explained that the stolen goods were recovered.

Taking into account the accused’s guilty plea, presiding Magistrate Giovanni Grixti remanded the men in custody pending sentencing.

Police Inspector Jason Francis Sultana prosecuted, while Lawyer Joe Ellis was legal aid.