Borg Proposes Specialist Anti-Drug Squad for Gozo

Imagine this: a quiet evening in Xlendi, Gozo. Tourists and locals alike enjoy a peaceful dinner, the only sounds the gentle lapping of waves against the shore and the soft hum of conversation. Now, imagine a sudden flurry of activity – police officers, not in their usual uniforms, but in plain clothes, swiftly and silently descending on a nearby property. This isn’t a scene from a movie, but a vision proposed by Alex Borg, former Minister and current Nationalist Party MP, for our sister island.

Borg has called for the establishment of a specialist anti-drug squad dedicated to Gozo. The proposal comes amidst growing concerns about drug-related activities on the island, which have seen a worrying increase in recent years. “Gozo deserves its own specialist squad,” Borg told Hot Malta. “The island’s unique geography and community dynamics require a tailored approach to tackle this issue effectively.”

Gozo, with its close-knit communities and relatively small size, faces unique challenges in combating drug-related crimes. The island’s isolation, while a boon for tourism, can also make it a target for drug trafficking. the close proximity of many homes to suspected drug hotspots raises concerns about public safety and community well-being.

Borg’s proposal isn’t just about increasing police presence; it’s about changing the way drugs are tackled on the island. “We need officers who understand the community, who speak the language, both literally and figuratively,” he said. “They need to be able to blend in, gather intelligence, and act swiftly and decisively when necessary.”

Borg envisions a squad of around 20 officers, selected for their local knowledge, investigative skills, and undercover experience. They would operate independently from the main police force, reporting directly to the Commissioner of Police. This structure, Borg argues, would allow the squad to maintain a low profile while fostering close ties with the community.

The squad would focus on intelligence gathering, undercover operations, and targeted raids. They would also work closely with community leaders, schools, and youth organizations to educate and prevent drug use among young people. “We can’t arrest our way out of this problem,” Borg said. “We need to address the root causes and that means working with our community.”

Borg’s proposal has sparked a lively debate on the island. While some welcome the idea of a specialist squad, others express concerns about potential civil liberties implications and the cost of maintaining such a unit. The MP acknowledges these concerns but remains steadfast in his belief that the benefits would outweigh the costs.

“We’re at a crossroads,” Borg said. “We can either sit back and let drugs continue to erode our communities, or we can take a stand, invest in a proactive approach, and send a clear message that drug-related activities will not be tolerated on our island.”

Borg has called on the government to consider his proposal and engage in open dialogue with the public about the best way forward. He also encourages residents to share their thoughts and concerns, emphasizing that the success of such a squad would depend on community support and cooperation.