Authorities Step Up Action Against Antisocial Behaviour
The Armed Forces of Malta have been deployed in Swieqi alongside the Malta Police Force as authorities increase their response to ongoing complaints about late-night disturbances and antisocial behaviour in the locality.
The joint presence began on Tuesday night following sustained pressure from Swieqi Local Council and residents, according to Deputy Mayor Jordan Galea Pace. The additional personnel are intended primarily to provide a stronger visible deterrent during the night.
The action follows a series of incidents and complaints involving late-night noise, vandalism, public urination and dangerous behaviour associated with some tourist accommodation. In one recent case, 12 tourists were fined a combined €2,000 and a holiday apartment was shut down following serious disturbances in Swieqi.
A stronger response
The latest measures include:
- Police and Armed Forces personnel on the streets at night
- A stronger visible security presence aimed at deterring antisocial behaviour
- Continued pressure from the Local Council for enforcement
- Calls for similar measures to be considered in neighbouring localities
Galea Pace said the problems do not stop at Swieqi’s borders and called for surrounding communities to work together to tackle antisocial behaviour in residential areas.
The deployment has not been universally welcomed. Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association president Tony Zahra described the use of soldiers as an extreme measure and argued that public-order enforcement should remain the responsibility of the police and community police.
For residents who have repeatedly complained about disturbances, however, the deployment represents a concrete response after months of calls for stronger enforcement.