Guns and Gallops: Sicily’s Illegal Horse Race Raises Eyebrows in Malta

Imagine this: the sun dips low over the Sicilian countryside, casting long shadows across the dusty track. The air is thick with tension, the hum of anticipation. But this isn’t your typical Sunday afternoon horse race. This is an illegal gathering, and the spectators aren’t the only ones packing heat.

Armed and Dangerous

In a recent video circulating on Maltese social media, a horse race in Sicily takes a sinister turn. Guns are drawn, not just by the spectators, but by the riders themselves. The footage, captured on a mobile phone, shows a man on a horse brandishing a pistol, while another rider is seen with a shotgun slung across his back. The video has sparked outrage and concern, not just in Sicily, but also across the Strait of Sicily, in Malta.

Malta’s close proximity to Sicily means that news and trends often cross the Mediterranean. The illegal horse racing scene, known as ‘cavallucci’, has been a problem in Sicily for years, but this latest incident has put it firmly in the spotlight. “We’ve heard about these races happening, but this is the first time we’ve seen such blatant disregard for the law,” says Malta’s Superintendent of Police, Alex Deguara.

Malta’s Connection

Malta has its own equestrian scene, with several riding schools and stables scattered across the islands. While illegal racing is not as prevalent, there have been instances of unauthorised races and even bets being placed. “We’re not naive to think that this kind of thing doesn’t happen here,” says Dr. Mario Vella, a local veterinarian who often treats racehorses. “But the level of danger we’re seeing in Sicily is alarming.”

Malta’s equestrian community is quick to distance itself from the Sicilian incident. “This is not what our sport stands for,” says Mark Attard, a Malta-based horse trainer. “We condemn any form of illegal activity, especially when it involves weapons.”

The Sicilian police have launched an investigation into the incident, with several arrests already made. In Malta, the police are using the incident as a reminder of the dangers of illegal racing. “We urge anyone involved in unauthorised races to stop immediately,” says Superintendent Deguara. “We will not tolerate any form of illegal activity, especially when it puts lives at risk.”

Back in Sicily, the investigation continues. The video has been shared widely, with many calling for stricter penalties for those involved. As for the horses, they too are victims, often subjected to harsh training methods and dangerous conditions. “We need to protect these animals as well,” says Dr. Vella. “They deserve better than this.”

As the sun sets on another day in the Mediterranean, the question remains: how do we rein in this dangerous trend before it’s too late?