Alex Borg Proposes Specialist Police Squad for Gozo’s Drug War

Imagine the quiet streets of Victoria, Gozo’s capital, suddenly echoing with the hum of a new police presence. This is the vision proposed by Alex Borg, the Opposition’s spokesperson for Gozo, who has called for a specialist anti-drug squad dedicated to the sister island. But what does this mean for the tight-knit community of Gozo, and can it really turn the tide against drug trafficking?

Gozo, with its idyllic landscapes and quiet villages, might seem an unlikely hotspot for drug-related crime. Yet, it’s no secret that the island has been grappling with an increase in drug abuse and trafficking. From the quiet streets of Xlendi to the bustling marketplaces of Victoria, the issue has become a growing concern for locals.

According to Borg, the current police presence on the island is stretched thin, with officers often having to cover multiple roles. He argues that a specialist squad, focused solely on drug-related crimes, could make a significant dent in the problem. “Gozo deserves its own dedicated team to tackle this issue head-on,” he says.

Borg’s proposal envisions a team of around 20 officers, based in a new station in Victoria. They would be equipped with specialist training and resources, allowing them to tackle everything from street-level dealing to organized trafficking. But what would this mean for the community?

For some, it’s a welcome step towards tackling a pressing issue. “We need more boots on the ground,” says Maria, a long-time resident of Xewkija. “If that means a new squad, then so be it.”

However, others worry about the potential impact on community relations. “We don’t want Gozo to feel like a police state,” says Joseph, a local businessman. “We need to strike a balance between tackling crime and maintaining the community’s trust in the police.”

Borg’s proposal is just the first step in what could be a significant shift in Gozo’s policing. But with the government yet to respond, it’s unclear whether this vision will become a reality. One thing is certain, though: the debate has sparked a much-needed conversation about drug-related crime in Gozo.

As Borg puts it, “Gozo deserves a future free from the shadow of drugs. This is just the start of the conversation, but I’m confident that together, we can make it happen.”