The Rapid Intervention unit has received a further 23 new patrol cars after a €230,000 investment, the Ministry for Home Affairs announced yesterday.

This means that there has been a total €400,000 investment in the purchase of 40 new patrol cars since the start of 2016.

Minister Carmelo Abela, who attended the ceremony along with Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar, said that the investment will allow for a greater police presence in communities and will thusly create safer streets.

He went on to say that in 2016, the rapid intervention unity made a 472 arrests. These 472 included 20 wanted persons, 247 people involved in violent altercations, 101 people involved in drugs, and 54 persons involved with theft.

Mr Abela also said that the patrol cars will also be used for the protection and transportation of VIPs and it will also be used in escort duties.