The Malta Association of Airfreight Forwarders sponsors the transportation of a Police Dog to strengthen Malta’s fight against crime.

The Malta Association of Airfreight Forwarders (MAAF) has sponsored the transportation of "Ziggy” – a working dog who will be used as part of a breeding programme to breed suitable Police Dogs. The Association sponsored the transportation of this police dog from Austria to Malta. Ziggy, a 4 year old Belgian Shepard (Malinois), will be used to commence a breeding programme for The Malta Police Force K9 Unit, thanks to her good working blood line and pedigree.

Ms Davina Spiteri of OMAS (Airport Security) was instrumental in coordinating the sponsorship.

Ziggy was presented to the press during a press conference held at the Old Airport Terminal Luqa

The Malta Association of Airfreight Forwarders better known as MAAF has been present in the airfreight industry for the past 10 years. This year the Association celebrates its 10th anniversary. The Association’s main objective is to see to the interest of Maltese logistics agencies handling international air cargo shipments around the globe.

The players within the airfreight industry in Malta make up a relatively small community, however their impact on the Island’s economy is substantial, as apart from employing a good number of employees, they handle all airfreight shipments for both import and export to / from Malta to worldwide destinations.

When speaking at the press conference Marco Spiteri, President of MAAF explained how the Airfreight Industry has an excellent, long standing relationship with both The Malta Customs and The Malta Police, as together with the airline companies, all form part of a fundamental element in the transportation of goods by air across borders. “Hence the reply from MAAF to the invitation of sponsoring the carriage of ‘Ziggy’ from Austria to Malta was a definite and an immediate yes”, said Mr Spiteri.

On their behalf the Malta Police thanked the Association for its assistance in bringing over the dog which is sure to help them fulfil their endeavours.

Dogs like Ziggy are used as working dogs for various tasks including; detection of explosives, narcotics, human scent and firearms, and also for crowd control and apprehension of criminals.

Ziggy will be instrumental in the fight we face against crime. These dogs are loyal friends and heroes of our society.