The Ministry for Home Affairs has launched the Police Patrolling Community Support Officers (PPCSOs) service, with 34 PPCSOs. The Ministry stated that this new initiative reinforces the government’s commitment to having a police force closer to the people and more present in local communities.
In its statement, published on Friday, the Ministry for Home Affairs noted that “PPCSOs have a crucial role in being a visible, accessible, and reassuring presence in localities, by working hand-in-hand with the Police Force in communities with local councils, schools, organisations, and other community entities.”
The main objective for Police Patrolling Community Support Officers is for them to be present in their communities through continuous patrols, in which they are instructed to address daily challenges, intervene early in situations of anti-social behaviour, offer advice on safety and security, and improve the relationship between citizens and the police service.
This role was first proposed in the Budget. Today, the Police Force has its first 34 PPCSOs in service. This initiative is fully aligned with the Police Force’s Corporate Strategy and the security investments announced in the Budget that gave priority to human resources, training, and prevention.
The Ministry stated that through this role, the government is continuing to strengthen its vision of having a Police Force that is goes beyond an enforcement force, and offers a “modern, efficient service with a strong presence in communities.”
The Minister for Home Affairs, Byron Camilleri, said that “PPCSOs represent the core of our vision for a police force that is closer to the people. These are officers who listen, understand and act before problems escalate.”
“By investing in this service, we are building safer, more united and stronger communities, reducing and keeping crime rates low, while strengthening trust between citizens and institutions,” Minister Camilleri said.
Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà commented that the introduction of PPCSOs is an essential part of a broader vision that focuses on having safer communities and smarter policing, based on community needs.
He observed that “we currently have 170 officers assigned to Community Policing Teams, including 34 Patrol & Community Support Officers. As we continue to implement our vision, we remain determined to keep our country among the safest in the world.”
The Ministry thanked all PPCSOs for their commitment and dedication, while wishing them every success in the work they will be carrying out in Maltese and Gozitan communities.