Another hold-up in the street

A 24-year-old man was robbed at knifepoint in St Julians late on Sunday night, making him the eighth victim of street hold-ups in the past three weeks.

The police said a group of robbers, armed with knives, approached the man as he was walking along Sant'Andrija Street and took the small amount of cash he had in this possession before fleeing. The victim was unhurt.

Just over a week ago, six people were robbed in the street at gunpoint, four in Swieqi and two in Qawra. The incidents happened within minutes of each other, with the victims' reports being very similar to each other's.

Informed sources had told The Times that the police did not initially think the hold-ups in Swieqi and Qawra were related. A few days later, however, a 38-year-old Libyan was charged in court for the incidents in both places. He pleaded not guilty and has since been held in prison.

The police were also said to be looking for another two people in connection with these hold-ups.

Just over three weeks ago, a hooded person used pepper spray to force a 22-year-old Filipino to hand over his money, about €300, in Hay Street, Swieqi.

The recent spate of such incidents has inspired a new group on Facebook which has already attracted 300 people. The group calls for Malta to remain a safe place "before it's too late".

One of the group's suggestions is to set up a neighbourhood watch in "sensitive" areas, that would bring the community together to actively prevent crime and keep towns safe.

cperegin@timesofmalta.com