The Federation for Hunting and Conservation Malta (FKNK) has called for the appointing of conservation officers in the Aħrax Reserve and Miżieb areas, in attempt to prevent further vandalism and environmental damage done at the site.

The area has suffered vandalism, fire hazards, damage to surrounding trees and cultivated land, theft of signs put up by authorities and clear littering in the areas which is being used by the public for ‘recreational’ purposes on the weekends, said the group. It lamented about the shameful state the area has found itself in.

“This is also clear proof that the public has unlimited access to the reserves, contrary to other reserves and NGOs where the area is blocked off to the public with the use of chains,” it said.

The FKNK appealed for signs to be put up anew, as well as the installation of CCTV cameras and ballards and gates to be set up. It also appealed to the Police Commissioner for increased surveillance at the area, especially on the weekends.

The group appealed to the public to be more prudent in their behaviour, as well as show more respect towards the natural environment in the area.