Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by Home Affairs Minister Glenn Bedingfield and Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà, visited the specialised police squad in Paceville.

During the visit on Friday morning, the Prime Minister met with police officers working in this dedicated squad who work daily to strengthen police presence and bolster the maintenance of public order and security in the most challenging areas, particularly during the summer months.

Abela said that his government will continue investing in having a stronger police presence and in the necessary resources for Malta to remain a safe country.

Abela said that, from the experiences of Maltese and Gozitans, his government must see that everyone living in the Maltese islands should live respectfully with one another as good order is maintained.

He said that tourists visiting the Maltese islands should enjoy the country's beauty while reciprocating respect towards Maltese citizens.

Abela pointed out that, in this regard, this squad's work serves as an important role in upholding this and thanked the officers for pushing to have increasingly safer communities.

The squad began operating this May and consists of 23 constables and eight sergeants, comprising of 31 officers in total.

The squad's main objective is to ensure security within the Paceville area as well as the safety of everyone who lives in or visits the area through more modern and locally adapted policing methods.

In doing so, the force works hand-in-hand with other entities like the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), Towncentre Management, and other departments of the Police Force, such as the immigration police and its anti-drug sections.

This work complements what is being carried out by community police in various localities around the country, including Swieqi, St Julian's, Gżira, Buġibba and other areas where footfall for residents, tourists and businesses is increasing, the Office of the Prime Minister said in its statement.

The Paceville squad does patrols, prevents anti-social behaviour, conducts inspections on businesses, carries out enforcement, and maintains direct contact with residents and establishment owners.

During the visit, the recently signed legal notice to introduce on-the-spot fines for tourists breaking minor laws was also mentioned.