Crack Cocaine Bust on Unlicensed Motorcycle in Gozo

In a bustling street of Victoria, Gozo’s capital, a man was caught red-handed with crack cocaine, riding an unlicensed motorcycle. This isn’t your typical tourist snapshot of the sister island, known for its quiet charm and historic sites. The incident, which took place last week, has the usually peaceful community.

Unlicensed and Unprepared

The man, a 35-year-old local resident, was intercepted by police on Triq San Lawrenz, a bustling street lined with shops and restaurants. The motorcycle he was riding was found to be unlicensed, adding another layer to the violation. “It’s not just about the drugs,” says Inspector Joseph Xuereb of the Gozo Police Station. “Riding an unlicensed vehicle puts not only the rider but also other road users at risk.”

Crack Cocaine in Gozo: A Rare Find

Crack cocaine is not a common sight in Gozo. The island, with its population of around 31,000, is more known for its traditional festivals, historic sites like the Ġgantija Temples, and the picturesque Azure Window (now collapsed) than for drug-related incidents. The police, however, are quick to remind us that no place is immune. “We’re vigilant,” says Xuereb. “We’re not just patrolling the streets, we’re also engaging with the community, encouraging them to report any suspicious activities.”

According to the Malta Drug Information and Research Centre, drug use in Malta is relatively low compared to other European countries. However, they also warn that the situation is fluid and can change rapidly. “We can’t be complacent,” says Dr. Maria Pisani, the centre’s director. “Education and awareness are key in preventing drug abuse.”

What Now?

The man in custody faces charges of drug possession and riding an unlicensed vehicle. The police are also investigating if he was part of a larger network. “We’re treating this as an isolated incident,” says Xuereb. “But we’re also looking into any possible connections.”

For the residents of Gozo, it’s a wake-up call. “We’ve always felt safe here,” says Maria Grech, a Victoria resident. “But this incident reminds us that we need to stay vigilant too.”