Alex Borg Proposes Specialist Police Squad for Gozo

Imagine this: a quiet, winding street in the heart of Victoria, Gozo’s capital. The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the historic buildings. Suddenly, a car pulls over, and a discreet exchange takes place. This isn’t a scene from a movie, but a reality that’s become all too familiar for many Gozitans. Now, local politician Alex Borg is proposing a solution: a specialist police anti-drug squad dedicated to the island.

The Drug Problem in Gozo: A Growing Concern

Gozo, with its rich history and tight-knit communities, has long been considered a safe haven. However, in recent years, drug-related incidents have been on the rise. From small-time dealing to larger-scale operations, the island is grappling with a problem that’s difficult to ignore. According to the Malta Police Force, drug seizures in Gozo have increased by 30% in the past two years.

“We’re seeing more drugs, more dealing, and more young people getting involved,” says Borg, who has been a vocal advocate for Gozo’s issues. “It’s time we take a stand and protect our communities.”

Borg’s Proposal: A Specialist Squad for Gozo

Borg’s proposal is straightforward: create a specialist police squad dedicated to tackling drug-related crime in Gozo. The squad would be based in Victoria, the island’s administrative and commercial hub, and would work closely with the local community.

“We need a team that understands our island, its culture, and its people,” Borg explains. “A squad based in Gozo, working with Gozitans, would be better equipped to tackle this problem.”

The squad would have several key roles: intelligence gathering, targeted operations, community engagement, and education. Borg envisions a team of around 15 officers, including detectives, uniformed officers, and a community liaison officer.

“We’re not just talking about enforcement here,” Borg says. “We need to educate our young people about the dangers of drugs, and we need to support those struggling with addiction.”

Challenges and Next Steps

Borg’s proposal faces several challenges. The most significant is funding. The squad would require additional resources, including personnel, vehicles, and equipment. Borg is confident that, with the right arguments, these resources can be secured.

“We need to show that this is a worthwhile investment,” he says. “We need to demonstrate that a specialist squad would not only tackle drug crime but also boost community confidence and support.”

The next step, Borg says, is to present the proposal to the relevant authorities and start a dialogue. He’s also keen to hear from the public. “This is about Gozo, and it’s Gozo’s future that’s at stake. I want to hear from Gozitans about what they think, what they need, and how we can work together to make our island safer.”

You can contact Alex Borg via his Facebook page or by email at alexborggozo@gmail.com.