23 NGOs have expressed their solidarity and sorrow following the murder of a migrant in Birzebbuga last Sunday.

"We are deeply saddened by the news of the death of Lassibe Souleymane, brutally shot in the limits Ħal Far over the weekend," the NGOs said.

The 42-year-old man from the Ivory Coast was killed with a shot to the head, while two other men, a Georgian national and another who is believed to be from Ghana, were also hit by gunfire. 

"We also wish all the very best to the two other victims of the shooting and hope they recover without permanent or serious damage. Whatever the actual reasons for this terrible incident, it affects not only the three victims but the entire migrant community in creating a sense of fear, lack of security and isolation. It also affects us all, a nation jolted by an appalling act of violence," the NGOs said.

"As we eagerly await the outcome of the investigations, we urge Malta’s highest authorities to unequivocally condemn all forms of violence – whatever their motivation. We caution that, should it emerge that this was in fact a racially-motivated incident, Malta would be called upon to face far more than an act of assault, but far graver crime aimed at instilling terror in entire communities.

"Secondly, we expect the Malta Police Force to step up: commit all necessary resources to bring the perpetrators to justice; ensure the survivors are treated as victims of crime and guaranteed all the support and protection they need. Importantly we underline the need to comfort and express solidarity with all residents of Ħal Far, assuring that all will be done to restore good order and security for the locality’s communities," the NGOs said.

The statement was endorsed by the following organisations: 1. aditus foundation 2. African Media Association Malta 3. Allied Rainbow Communities (arc) 4. Blue Door English 5. The Critical Institute 6. Department for Inclusion and Access to Learning, University of Malta 7. Foundation for Shelter and Support to Migrants 8. Integra Foundation  9. International Association for Refugees 10. Isles of the Left 11. Jesuit Refugee Service (Malta) 12. LGBTI Plus Gozo 13. Malta Emigrants’ Commission 14. Malta Humanist Association 15. Malta LGBTIQ Rights Movement; 16. Men Against Violence  17. Moviment Graffitti 18. National Foster Care Association Malta 19. Richmond Foundation 20. Solidarity with Migrants 21. Spark15 22. Victim Support Malta 23. Women’s Rights Foundation