Reference is being made to Martin Scicluna’s article entitled ‘The rule of law’ published in The Malta Independent on 15 June.

May we point out that the allegations made by the Ms Rachel Ginty were duly investigated and it resulted that the facts as penned down in the piece do not portray a true picture of what really occurred at the time of the incident. Hence the Force feels duty-bound to clarify matters.

Contrary to what was alleged by Ms Ginty, at no point in time was the Maltese girl being beaten by her boyfriend. Only an argument between the two was taking place and this could also be confirmed by the Maltese girl herself as well as her father who denied that his daughter was ever hit by her boyfriend. The latter also praised the police officers handling this case for the high level of professionalism shown.

It seems that Ms Ginty came up with her allegations after she meddled into the argument between the two local youths and it was only after she slapped the boyfriend in the face that he reacted and pushed her away. Following this, two other male Britons who were with her intervened where in the scuffle that ensued, one of them was punched in the face whilst a vehicle’s window was also smashed by the Maltese youth when hitting back.

As regards to the allegations of police inaction, it should be stated that when the police officers arrived at the scene, the argument had already subsided and prompt action was taken by them to investigate the case. Particulars were taken and medical certificates were requested from the persons involved. The injured parties were invited to file reports against each other so that court action could be taken. None of them considered to take this course of action. As the smashed car window was replaced by the Maltese youth, the car owner declined to press charges against the former.

Nevertheless, four persons will be charged in court in the near future for breaching the public order and peace.

WPS 101 Roberta Grima

On behalf of the Commissioner of Police