The Malta Independent 26 April 2024, Friday
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Terror risks in Malta low, but Maltese roads are dangerous - British Foreign Office

Jacob Borg Thursday, 2 July 2015, 12:19 Last update: about 10 years ago

The threat of terrorism in Malta is low, but taking to the Maltese roads is fraught with danger, according to the British Foreign Office’s travel advice.

“There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public places, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

“There is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time,” the Foreign Office says on its website.

Although the risk of pot-shots from terrorists is low, the risk from potholes is decidedly higher.

“Take care while driving as some roads are in poor condition.  Keep to the speed limit. Local standards of driving are poor.

“In 2013 there were 18 road deaths in Malta. This equates to 4.3 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 2.8 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2013,” the Foreign Office advises.”

The Foreign Office notes that the tension in Libya has spilled over somewhat in Malta.

“The political situation in Libya has resulted in tensions between two offices claiming to represent the Libyan government in Malta.

“The two buildings are situated near bus stops on Triq L-Abate Rigord in Ta’ Xbiex and Triq L-Imdina in Attard. Take extra care and avoid large gatherings and demonstrations at these locations,” it says.

Other destinations in the Mediterranean region such as Spain and France have been given the same terrorism threat level as Libya and Somalia.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said there is no information to suggest that Malta is in danger of a terrorist attack.

He implored citizens to remain vigilant and report anything unusual to the authorities. 

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