Almost half of the visa applications by Algerians to enter Malta were refused last year, according to the Home Affairs Ministry. It was reacting to claims by an immigration officer at Malta International Airport who warned of “gaps” in the Schengen system.

The officer, Johan Mula, said he had noticed a number of cases involving Algerians and other nationalities in which he was “morally convinced” those granted entry to Malta were not bona fide applicants.

The ministry insisted there was “absolutely nothing to indicate the veracity” of Mr Mula’s allegations.

“In 2014, after having consulted with the police authorities in Malta, the Maltese Consulate in Algiers refused no less than 46 per cent of all visa applications submitted to it,” the ministry said. 

The ministry said the administration of the Schengen entry points by the police was “rigorously and assiduously” done in the best interests of security and in full observance of Schengen Treaty obligations.  

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See also http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20150112/local/immigration-officer-warns-of-gaps-in-visa-free-system.551503