As the police force in Malta celebrates its 200th anniversary, Nationalist MP Jason Azzopardi, while lauding the force for its hard work, said that history should serve to ensure that mistakes are not repeated. Dr Azzopardi claimed that the police force, who should serve the public’s interest first and foremost, has often ended up being the subject of political interference. “We should not forget that in the past, even within the police force, individuals have been framed, tortured, and even killed.”

Adding that political interference poses high risks on democratic structures, Dr Azzopardi argued that during the past 14 months the police force has often been subject to such interference. Vindictive transfers, halting procedures against offenders, and allowing Mayor Rosianne Cutajar to skip the Gozo Channel queue serve as examples.

The Nationalist MP said it is unfortunate that during such an important anniversary, the police force is under the leadership of acting commissioner Ray Zammit, after former commissioner Peter Paul Zammit was forced to step down. While congratulating Ray Zammit for his new role, Dr Azzopardi urged the acting commissioner to ensure integrity and responsibility within the police force.