Serbian Convicts Deported from Malta

As the sun rose over the Grand Harbour on Monday, a chartered flight from Malta’s International Airport took off, carrying with it a group of Serbian men who had spent the past few years behind bars on the island. They were not tourists returning home, but convicted criminals being deported after serving their jail terms for drugs and robbery offenses.

This deportation, organized by the Maltese authorities in collaboration with Serbian counterparts, marks a significant step in Malta’s ongoing efforts to tackle organized crime and drug trafficking. The operation, which has been in the works for months, saw the repatriation of 15 Serbian nationals who had completed their sentences in Maltese prisons.

Among the deportees were individuals convicted for a range of offenses. Some were part of a Serbian gang that terrorized Malta’s streets in 2017, responsible for a series of armed robberies that left the local community shaken. Others were involved in drug trafficking, contributing to the island’s ongoing battle against the illegal substance trade.

One of the deportees, Marko J., was convicted for his role in a €20,000 drug bust in 2018. Speaking to Hot Malta from his cell at Corradino Correctional Facility before his deportation, he expressed regret for his actions. “I made mistakes,” he admitted, “but I’ve paid my debt to Maltese society. I just want to go home and start fresh.”

Deportation, while not a new tool in Malta’s crime-fighting arsenal, has become increasingly prominent in recent years. According to data obtained by Hot Malta, 42 foreign nationals were deported from Malta in 2021, with the majority having served time for drug-related and violent crimes.

Superintendent Mario Camilleri, who oversaw the deportation operation, emphasized the importance of such measures. “Deportation is not just about removing convicted criminals from our prisons,” he said. “It’s also about sending a strong message to those who think they can come to Malta and commit crimes. We will not tolerate it, and we will ensure you face the consequences of your actions.”

The Serbian Embassy in Malta, while acknowledging the deportation, stressed the importance of rehabilitation and reintegration. “We hope that these individuals can now rebuild their lives in Serbia,” a spokesperson said. “We believe in second chances and will provide them with the necessary support upon their return.”

As the Serbian men boarded their flight back home, Malta’s battle against crime continues. With organized crime groups and drug trafficking still posing significant threats, local authorities remain vigilant. “This deportation is a victory, but the war is far from over,” a high-ranking police official told Hot Malta on condition of anonymity.

In the coming months, Maltese authorities plan to step up their efforts to disrupt criminal networks and bring those responsible to justice. This includes increased border control, intelligence sharing with international partners, and enhanced community policing initiatives.

As for the Serbian men deported today, their future remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: Malta will not hesitate to deport convicted criminals who pose a threat to its society. And as the sun set over the Grand Harbour, the message was loud and clear: Malta is no longer a safe haven for foreign criminals.