Government ‘given up’ on fighting crime, PN claims

In the heart of Malta’s bustling Republic Street, shopkeepers are locking up earlier. Not because of the setting sun, but the rising fear. The Nationalist Party (PN) has accused the government of ‘giving up’ on fighting crime, with incidents on the island surging like never before. But is this a fair assessment, or just political rhetoric?

Statistics from the Malta Police Force paint a stark picture. Robberies are up by 30% compared to last year, with a significant increase in burglaries and thefts. The PN points to these figures, arguing that the government’s ‘soft’ approach is emboldening criminals. But the Labour Party (PL) retorts that the PN is cherry-picking data to score political points.

Dr. Robert Arrigo, PN MP for Birkirkara, tells Hot Malta, “We’re seeing a crime wave sweeping across Malta. From Msida to Żebbuġ, no town is immune. The government is turning a blind eye, and criminals are taking full advantage.”

The government maintains that it’s taking a balanced approach to crime, focusing on prevention and rehabilitation alongside tougher penalties. It points to initiatives like the Restorative Justice Act and increased investment in community policing. But critics argue that these measures are too little, too late.

Dr. Byron Camilleri, PL MP for Ħamrun, counters, “We’re not just reacting to crime; we’re addressing its root causes. Yes, we’re seeing an increase in incidents, but we’re also seeing a decrease in serious crimes. It’s complex, and it won’t be solved with soundbites.”

the government highlights its plans to recruit more police officers and invest in new technologies to combat crime. However, these plans are still in their infancy, and the public is growing impatient.

Back on Republic Street, shopkeeper Mario Borg sums up the public mood. “I’ve been here for 20 years. I’ve never seen it like this. People are scared. They’re closing up earlier, spending less. It’s hurting business, and it’s hurting Malta’s reputation.”

But not everyone agrees that the government has thrown in the towel. Retired police officer Joe Xuereb tells Hot Malta, “I’ve seen governments come and go. This one’s not perfect, but they’re not giving up. They’re just taking a different approach.”

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