Borg Proposes Specialist Anti-Drug Squad for Gozo

Imagine, if you will, the bustling streets of Victoria, Gozo’s capital. The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the ancient citadel. Among the chatter of locals and tourists, a stark reality lingers: the island’s drug problem. Now, one man is proposing a solution that could transform Gozo’s streets.

Alex Borg, the Opposition’s spokesperson for Gozo Affairs, has called for the establishment of a specialist police anti-drug squad dedicated to the sister island. His proposal, outlined in a recent interview, aims to tackle the drug menace head-on, making Gozo’s streets safer for its 31,000 residents and the thousands of tourists who visit each year.

Gozo, with its idyllic landscapes and rich history, is often perceived as a haven of peace and tranquility. However, it’s not immune to the scourge of drugs. The island’s strategic location, close to North Africa and Europe, has made it a transit point for illicit substances. the rise of drug use among young people has added a local dimension to the problem.

Borg’s proposal comes amidst growing concerns about drug-related incidents in Gozo. In recent months, there have been reports of increased drug trafficking and use, particularly among young people. The proposal seeks to address these issues head-on, ensuring that Gozo remains a safe haven for both residents and visitors.

Borg’s proposal envisions a specialist anti-drug squad, comprising officers trained in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and undercover operations. This squad would operate alongside the existing police force, augmenting their capabilities and resources.

The squad would be based in Gozo, with a dedicated office in Victoria. This would ensure a swift response to incidents and a constant presence on the island. Borg also proposed that the squad should work closely with local communities, schools, and NGOs to educate and prevent drug use.

“We need a proactive approach,” Borg told Hot Malta. “We can’t just wait for drugs to come to our doorstep. We need to go out there, gather intelligence, and disrupt the supply chain.”

Borg’s proposal is still in its early stages, and much work remains to be done. The Opposition spokesperson is currently engaging with stakeholders, including the police force and local councils, to refine the plan and ensure its feasibility.

Borg is also calling on the government to allocate additional resources to the police force in Gozo. He believes that investing in more officers and better equipment will significantly enhance the force’s ability to tackle crime, including drug-related offenses.

Meanwhile, the government has been tight-lipped about Borg’s proposal. While they have acknowledged the drug problem in Gozo, they have yet to comment on Borg’s specific plan. However, with the upcoming general election, the issue of drug trafficking and use is likely to feature prominently in the political debate.

For now, Borg remains optimistic. “Gozo deserves to be a safe place for everyone,” he said. “And with the right resources and strategy, we can make that a reality.”