Sliema Crash: Driver Held Despite No Residence Permit

Imagine this: a car speeds through the bustling streets of Sliema, narrowly missing pedestrians before crashing into a shopfront on Tower Road. The driver, a foreign national, is later found to have been driving with a Maltese licence despite not having a residence permit. This is not a scene from a Hollywood thriller, but a reality that unfolded in our very own Sliema last week.

Who Was Behind the Wheel?

The driver, a 32-year-old man from Nigeria, was arrested and charged following the incident. According to police reports, he was driving a rented car at the time of the crash. The vehicle, a white Renault Clio, was found to have been hired using a Maltese driving licence, which the man had been using for over a year.

Licence Issued Despite No Residence Permit

In a twist to the tale, it was revealed that the man had not been residing in Malta long-term. He did not possess a Maltese residence permit, a requirement for obtaining a local driving licence. This has raised questions about the vetting process for driving licence applicants and the enforcement of residence permit rules.

Transport Malta, the authority responsible for issuing driving licences, has confirmed that the man’s licence was issued in 2020. They have since launched an investigation into how this oversight occurred. In a statement, they assured the public that stringent measures are in place to prevent such incidents in the future.

Residents React: Safety Concerns

News of the incident has sparked concern among Sliema residents. Many have taken to social media to express their worry about the safety of pedestrians, especially in the busy commercial hub of Tower Road.

“I walk along Tower Road every day,” said Maria, a local resident. “I’ve seen drivers speeding and driving recklessly before. This incident just underscores the need for stricter enforcement and better vetting of licence applicants.”

Local councillor, Joe Borg, echoed these sentiments. “We need to ensure that only those who meet the necessary criteria are issued Maltese driving licences. The safety of our residents is paramount,” he said.

In light of this incident, Transport Malta has reminded the public that driving licences are issued based on strict criteria, including proof of residence. They have also urged anyone with information about similar incidents to come forward.

As we await the outcome of Transport Malta’s investigation, one thing is clear: the safety of our streets depends on the vigilance of both authorities and the public. Let’s ensure that our roads remain safe for all.