PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY AND EMPLOYMENT New Uniforms for the Rapid Intervention Unit

• Another investment in the resources and working conditions of officers within the Malta Police Force

Just one month after new vehicles were inaugurated for the Rapid Intervention Unit (RIU), the Malta Police Force has continued to strengthen this specialised section through a new uniform designed to further improve officers' comfort and efficiency while carrying out their duties.

The new uniform was specifically designed to meet the RIU's operational needs. Its design was developed following close evaluation and consultation with officers from the section itself, ensuring that the identified needs were addressed in the most effective and practical manner.

Made from material that offers greater mobility, ventilation, and comfort during operations, the uniform also incorporates pockets that make it more practical both during tours of duty and field operations. While the black colour gives the RIU a distinct identity, the overall design remains consistent with the current working uniform of the Malta Police Force, with minor variations adapted to the section's operational requirements in order to maintain the Force's identity.

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri, stated that this investment forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure that members of the Force benefit from better working conditions, more modern equipment, an improved working environment, and resources that continue to strengthen their daily operations. He added that this is also an investment in Maltese and Gozitan families, as it ultimately translates into a better service for the public.

He emphasised that the Government will continue investing both in equipment and in the wellbeing of officers so they can carry out their duties with the highest level of professionalism and efficiency.

Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà said that the new uniform reflects the Force's commitment to adapting to modern operational realities and providing officers with equipment suited to their specialised functions. He explained that the contribution of the officers themselves in designing the uniform was crucial in ensuring that the final product is practical, comfortable, and suitable for the intensive work carried out by the RIU.

The section will officially begin using the new uniform from 7pm this evening.