Inspector Elliot Magro has been appointed as the new Commissioner for Animal Welfare, a role dedicated to promoting animal well-being and safeguarding the rights and protection of animals across Malta and Gozo. His appointment will take effect on 20 July 2026.

He will be replacing Fleur Abela, who gave up the post after being elected to Parliament.

Inspector Magro brings over twenty-one years of service within the Malta Police Force, having served as a Police Inspector for the last eleven years. Throughout his career, he has led investigations, prosecuted hundreds of court cases, and held various leadership positions.

Most recently, he headed the Environment Protection Unit, where he oversaw enforcement related to environmental crimes and cases of animal cruelty and mistreatment. He holds an Honours degree in Criminology, a Diploma in Policing, and several international certifications in environmental crime enforcement. He is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Criminology at the University of Malta.

His commitment to animal welfare was previously recognised in 2022 during the Animal Honours Awards, held on World Animal Day, where he received the Commissioner for Animal Welfare Special Award for his dedication to enforcing laws against animal cruelty.

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said thanked Fleur Abela for her service and commitment to animal welfare during her tenure as Commissioner. At the same time, the Parliamentary Secretary extended her best wishes to Inspector Magro, expressing confidence in his ability to further strengthen efforts for the protection and well-being of animals.