PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS AND SECURITY We work to safeguard public order and community wellbeing – Minister Glenn Bedingfield during a visit to the Swieqi and Pembroke Community Policing

During a visit to the Swieqi and Pembroke Community Policing Station, Minister for Home Affairs and Security, Glenn Bedingfield, stated that public order and community wellbeing must always be safeguarded, which is why dedicated night patrols are being carried out in this particular area.

The Community Policing concept was first launched in Mellieħa in 2019 as part of a wider reform of the Malta Police Force. In 2020, Swieqi and Pembroke were among the first localities to benefit from this new policing model, which places greater emphasis on building closer relationships between police officers and the communities they serve. Today, the Community Police service is present in every town and village across Malta and Gozo.

Over recent years, Swieqi and Pembroke have experienced new realities linked to increased tourism activity. While these challenges are felt throughout the year, the highest influx of visitors is typically recorded between May and September.

In response to these developments, the Swieqi Community Police have, since the beginning of this summer, introduced overnight patrols operating throughout the night, with officers covering the entire locality and placing particular focus on identified hotspot areas.

One of the key pillars of Community Policing is direct engagement with residents. To facilitate this, the Swieqi Community Police team makes use of various communication channels, including a dedicated Facebook page and a WhatsApp channel through which residents can report concerns and communicate directly with officers.

Addressing the Community Police officers of Swieqi and Pembroke, alongside senior officials of the Police Force, Minister Bedingfield expressed his appreciation for their commitment and service.

“On behalf of the residents and the Maltese people, I thank you for the dedication with which you carry out your duties. This service has been very well received by the community, which can now maintain direct contact with officers through social media and mobile communication. Through this service, we are able to respond more promptly to residents' concerns and reports in the shortest time possible," said Minister Bedingfield.

Community Policing remains founded on the principle that residents should know their local police officers personally, while officers remain familiar with the specific needs and realities of the communities they serve. Today, around 170 Community Police officers operate across Malta and Gozo, maintaining continuous engagement with residents, including regular meetings held every three months to discuss local challenges and priorities.

The work of Community Police also focuses on maintaining public order, strengthening communication and community relations, preventing crime, and raising awareness on safety and security issues within local communities.

In the coming months, the Malta Police Force will continue to strengthen its resources through the recruitment of new officers who are set to join the Force in July, further enhancing the service provided to communities across the country.

Photos: MHS