When the elderly man refused, Azzopardi allegedly knocked the man over, kicking him, insulting him and even stabbing him three times, with a “flick knife.”

The victim, who was later identified as Joseph Frantz by Times of Malta, was hospitalised soon after and was certified as having grievous injuries, however not life-threatening, the police confirmed to Lovin Malta.

Following the incident, Azzopardi was apprehended and he appeared in front of Magistrate Caroline Farrugia Frendo earlier today.

Azzopardi told the Court that after being kicked out by his father, he lives in a field and gets by by begging and collecting bottles to exchange for money.

Furthermore, he pleaded not guilty to the attack as well as the possession of a knife without a valid license and resisting arrest following the incident.

The defendant did not request bail, remanding him in custody.

Police Inspector Elisia Scicluna prosecuted together with lawyer Miryea Mifsud on behalf of the Attorney General.

Lawyer Alexia Vassallo represented Azzopardi as legal aid.