In the quiet, narrow streets of Qormi, a bustling town known for its traditional bakeries and vibrant festivals, an unassuming residence has become the centre of a major drug bust. Malta Police have charged a woman following the seizure of cocaine worth an estimated €13,000 at the property.

Acting on a tip-off, police raided the residence on Triq il-Kbira, Qormi’s main street, last Thursday. They discovered the illicit drugs, neatly packaged and ready for distribution, hidden in the property. The woman, a 35-year-old Qormi resident, was arrested on the spot and subsequently charged with drug trafficking and possession.

News of the raid has through the close-knit community. Neighbours, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed their surprise. “You never expect something like this to happen next door,” one resident told Hot Malta. Another added, “Qormi is a small town. We look out for each other. This is not the Qormi we know.”

Local councillor, Joseph Muscat (no relation to the former Prime Minister), echoed these sentiments. “This is a wake-up call for our community. We must stand together against such activities that threaten our peaceful way of life.”

While Malta is often perceived as a safe haven, drug-related offences have been on the rise in recent years. According to the Malta Police, cocaine seizures have increased by 50% since 2018. Experts attribute this to the island’s strategic location, making it an attractive transit point for drug smugglers.

Dr. Maria Pisani, a criminologist at the University of Malta, told Hot Malta, “This seizure is a clear indication that drug trafficking is a growing concern in Malta. It’s not just a big city problem; it’s happening in our towns, our communities.”

As the investigation continues, the Qormi community is left to grapple with the reality that drug trafficking has reached their doorstep. But they’re not letting it define them. “We won’t let this bring us down,” said one resident. “We’ll stand together, support each other, and make sure Qormi remains the safe, welcoming town we all know and love.”

In the meantime, the Malta Police has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. You can reach out to the Drugs Squad on 2122 4121 or anonymously through the Police Hotline on 119.