Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said that the two soldiers who were arrested in connection with the murder of a migrant are not representative of what the Armed Forces of Malta stand for.

“I would like to thank the Police Force for their work in solving this important case,” he said in a statement.

“I would also like to state that the persons who were arrested do not represent the ethos of the Armed Forces of Malta, who I am convinced are doing very important work for our society.  Nevertheless, I still believe that we need to reflect on what happened.  In parallel, there is an ongoing internal investigation along with other security services, to determine whether these are isolated rogue individuals, or part of something wider.

“The conclusion of this investigation by the Police Force shows that Malta is a safe place for everyone, and it should remain so, whether for the Maltese or any other nationality. In our country everyone is required to follow the law. 

“This is also further proof that words of hatred and division have no place in our society.  It is a strong signal to all those who spread hate speech that their ill-placed sentiments have serious consequences.

“This is the reason we remain steadfast in our call for unity among the Maltese and all those who live in Malta.”