I have followed with interest all the correspondence regarding the theft of items from certain suitcases and luggage at Malta International Airport.

I was also the victim of this abuse about a year ago when I was on my way to the UK. Although the item stolen (a silver plated Malta souvenir) was not really precious, what was precious was its sentimental value.

This problem is giving a bad name to Malta and its hard working inhabitants and every method should be used in order to restrain the offenders.

What I have noticed is that MIA recently installed a machine that wraps and seals your luggage with plastic in order to solve this problem and prevent offenders from opening the luggage.

Although this service costs around Lm2, I think the price one has to pay for peace of mind is quite small when compared to the big problems one faces when some things are stolen from your luggage. This is a step in the right direction since every form of protection to luggage is important, not only when departing from Malta but also when arriving at the desired destination.

What is really interesting is that you also get a fiscal receipt (well done), which includes the date and time when your luggage was wrapped. I think it is an excellent idea since if something happens, one would have further proof to show to the authorities and also to insurance companies that the luggage had been tampered with.

Doris Gatt

HAMRUN