A total of 124 fines were issued by Police in relation to street celebrations which enveloped Ħamrun’s main street on Thursday night, The Malta Independent has been told.

Speaking to this newsroom, a police spokesperson said that 124 fines were handed out in relation with breaches of Covid-19 regulations at the celebrations.

“The Police have so far issued 124 fines related to breaching of Covid-19 regulations,” the spokesperson said.

“Investigations to identify more people who may have breached the Covid-19 regulations are ongoing”, the spokesperson added.

The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) meanwhile told The Malta Independent that it is going to take action against the organisers of the Ħamrun league-winning celebrations. 

“The MTA can confirm that no permit was requested, however, the MTA will be taking action against the organisers, following proper consultation with the Health and Police Authorities,” an MTA spokesperson said.

Hundreds of people gathered in Ħamrun to celebrate the presentation of the BOV Premier League trophy to the locality’s football team, with the activity being given extensive live coverage on TVM, NET and ONE.

The gathering of the huge crowd  sparked indignation on social media, particularly amongst the arts and entertainment sector which had a protest against the current restrictions on events blocked because it would have breached mass gathering laws.

Many of the participants openly flouted Covid-19 restrictions about the wearing of masks and social distancing, as they mingled together, embraced and danced to celebrate.

Mass events are currently, by law, meant to be restricted to venues with controlled entry and exit points with a maximum capacity of 100 seated people who are in possession of a vaccine certificate.