Reckless Races: Speeding Videos Emerge from Malta’s Streets

Imagine this: the hum of a car engine revving up, tyres screeching, and the blur of streetlights as you’re hurtling through the heart of Malta at breakneck speed. This isn’t a scene from the next Fast & Furious movie, but a reality captured on video and shared online by reckless drivers.

Viral Videos Spark Outrage

In recent weeks, videos have surfaced on social media showing cars speeding and performing dangerous maneuvers on Malta’s roads. The clips, often filmed from within the vehicles, show drivers weaving in and out of traffic, speeding through residential areas, and even performing doughnuts in public car parks.

One such video, shot in the quiet streets of Msida, shows a car speeding down Triq San Pawl and narrowly missing pedestrians. Another, filmed in Birkirkara, captures a car doing burnouts in a busy car park, sending plumes of smoke into the air.

Local Residents React

News of these videos has sparked outrage among local residents. “It’s not just about the danger to themselves,” says Maria, a Msida resident. “They’re putting everyone else at risk. I’ve got kids, and I’m terrified they’ll be hurt.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by Birkirkara resident, Joe. “I’ve seen this car before. It’s a menace. They think they’re invincible, but they’re playing with fire. It’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously hurt.”

Police Crack Down

In response to the videos, the Malta Police Force has warned that such behaviour will not be tolerated. “We are aware of these videos and are treating them very seriously,” a spokesperson said. “We are actively investigating and will be taking action against those involved.”

In fact, just days after the Msida video surfaced, police stopped and fined the driver. They also seized the car, which was found to be uninsured and unroadworthy.

What’s Being Done?

Parliamentary Secretary for Transport, Dr. Ian Borg, has also weighed in on the issue. “We are looking into ways to deter this kind of behaviour,” he said. “This could include increased patrols, stricter penalties, and even the use of automatic number plate recognition technology.”

Meanwhile, the Automobile Association of Malta has called on drivers to act responsibly. “Speed limits are there for a reason,” a spokesperson said. “Driving recklessly is not only dangerous, it’s illegal. We urge drivers to set a good example and obey the rules of the road.”

So, what can you do if you witness reckless driving? The Malta Police Force encourages you to report such incidents by calling 112 or using their online reporting system.

Let’s make our streets safe again, Malta. Let’s not let a few reckless drivers turn our roads into a real-life video game.