Thirty-seven recruits have joined the Police Force as constables after successfully completing the recruit training course at the Academy for Disciplined Forces. This course is accredited at MQF Level 4 by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority, enabling these new constables to begin serving the community and the country.

The course covered both physical and academic aspects, among others. In total, 63 subjects were taught, including Maltese law, ethics, diversity, rules and procedures, investigations of crimes such as domestic violence, child abuse on electronic platforms, sexual offences, and awareness of mental health, among other topics.

Throughout this year, the Police Force continued to strengthen its ranks with a net increase of more than 160 new full-time members. This includes a net increase of over 100 full-time sworn officers-taking into account new recruits, those returning to the Force, and retirements-as well as a net increase of 64 full-time civilian officers.

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment, Byron Camilleri, told the new constables that their oath-taking day is not the day of arrival but the beginning of a fulfilling career dedicated to serving the community within the Police Force.

"Be people of integrity and carry out your duties with a sense of justice, with dignity towards every person who requires your service, and with empathy. Be the shield of society, upon whose shoulders responsibility and trust are placed. Be part of the ongoing changes within the Police Force and take part in this renewal. As a Government, we will continue to invest in you-as we have done-in both your training and education and in the tools you use," said Minister Camilleri.

In his address, the Commissioner of Police, Angelo Gafà, urged the new constables to preserve the discipline and sense of responsibility instilled in them over recent months at the Academy, and above all, to always honour the four core values of the Force: impartiality, integrity, leadership, and respect towards our citizens.

The award for the most distinguished recruit, the PC Mark Farrugia Award, was presented to Sean Vella.