Broken windows

A person appeared in court recently after allegedly caught selling cocaine, balloons filled with nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas) and cannabis, in Paceville.

The police inspector characterised the man as operating “a small drug market”.

The widespread presence of cocaine and other Class A and B substances is alarming. However, what caught my attention was the sale of laughing gas, the consumption of which is not illegal, albeit trafficking it is.

In the United Kingdom, 20-year-old Cain Byrne was sentenced to 11 years in prison after fatally hitting Graham Slinn, an 81-year-old cyclist, who had dismounted and was walking across the A57 near Todwick, South Yorkshire. Byrne was driving under the influence of nitrous oxide.

In other recent cases, evidence showed that individuals were found to be four or five times over the legal alcohol limit; this resulted in several injuries and even deaths among fellow passengers and pedestrians.

Alcohol consumption and driving under the influence remain deeply rooted issues in Malta. Recognising the serious consequences associated with this behaviour, Social Policy Minister Michael Falzon introduced a comprehensive National Alcohol Policy.

The reality of alcohol misuse is not just reflected in statistics; it is a lived experience, woven into the fabric of daily life. We witness it on our roads, hear about it in our communities and see its effects undulate through Maltese society.

Repeated calls for robust action against alcohol abuse have long echoed from doctors, insurance companies, a magistrate, Caritas and numerous other respected voices in Maltese society.

There is widespread consensus that more frequent and truly random breathalyser and drug tests are not just judicious; they are essential.

While expanding enforcement is commendable, such efforts must not be limited to the familiar hotspots of Paceville’s corners, or the exits flanking Valletta, targeting only night-time revellers. To be genuinely effective, any policy addressing impaired driving and substance misuse must extend its reach far beyond these districts.

It is logical and strategic to encompass the exit roads from wedding halls; the winding routes leading away from village feasts; the car parks near beach barbecue gatherings; clubs and watering holes in remote areas; and countless other settings where alcohol-fuelled driving poses a risk.

If we are to expand policy, let it be expansive in vision and execution: comprehensive, fair and truly reflective of the full span of Maltese social life. Only then can we hope to meaningfully shift behaviours and safeguard our communities from the pervasive dangers of alcohol and substance abuse.

Alcohol use is prevalent in Malta. After four decades in the nightlife industry, I have witnessed every aspect of it: the habitual drinkers, the moderate, the aggressive, the remorseful, those who suffer, as well as those who inflict suffering. Some might suggest I have, in a broad sense, acted as a medium. Yet, it is the abuse, not the mere use, that is problematic.

Before composing this article, I navigated this bustling, yet, somewhat chaotic heart of Malta’s nightlife with a sense of unease. Business is thriving in Paceville, yet, my walk through its crowded streets was anything but pleasant.

To deepen my understanding, I spoke frankly with several young people I know, asking about the availability of drugs in the area. Their answers were sobering but unsurprising: not only are illicit substances readily accessible; patrons are routinely approached and encouraged to purchase illegal substances.

Paceville, by all accounts, is in disarray – a sprawling, revolting, unrestrained mess that has left many utterly aghast with the prevailing situation.

Something must be done. This is not a moving target or a pussyfooting situation. It demands immediate, decisive action. To address and reduce criminality in Paceville, a comprehensive approach anchored in three key pillars is essential.

Paceville is in disarray – a sprawling, revolting, unrestrained mess- Mark Grima

Implementing the Broken Window Theory can act as a transformative catalyst.

First introduced in the early 1980s, this proven concept explores the relationship between visible signs of disorder (broken windows, graffiti, vandalism) and the overall sense of safety within a community. The term itself stems from the metaphor that if a single broken window in a building goes unrepaired, it signals a lack of care and order, inviting further neglect and escalating misconduct.

Consider, for example, someone caught urinating in a public garden or by someone’s front door; an all-too-common occurrence in Paceville. If the individual is compelled to pay a fine on the spot, the message is unmistakable: immediate consequences would deter future misconduct because the pocket has the loudest voice. If an individual is unable to pay the fine, temporary detention, such as holding them in a cell until the next morning, is an alternative consequence. According to the theory, this immediate and tangible response reduces the likelihood the individual will re-offend or commit more serious crimes.

It is natural to wonder whether a sudden surge in visible enforcement and interventions might, at first, give Paceville the aura of a police state. But if it means stepping outside the comfort zone for a while, it is certainly worth the effort. Change, after all, often requires a bold beginning.

There is no doubt that the stretched police force in Paceville are doing their utmost in a challenging, crime-prone environment that is marked by frequent fights, security assaults on patrons, drug sales, public disturbances for residents, accidents, burglaries, vandalism and so forth. At peak season, up to 39 police officers, including plainclothes, rapid intervention and district units, are deployed on weekends.

Although Paceville is often seen as a ‘drug superstore’, police efforts must be viewed holistically. In 2024, the police made 318 drug-related arrests across Malta and Gozo; between January and July 2025, a further 293 arrests were carried out. These are not insignificant numbers

The police force cannot tackle the challenge alone. This brings me to the second pillar: the strategic deployment of CCTV. A robust network of surveillance cameras should be installed throughout Paceville, extending into Swieqi and the neighbouring area; not just a token set of 30 but an extensive grid of at least 80. Crucially, these cameras must be monitored in real time by properly trained civilians, ideally sourced from reputable security companies following proper training, protocol and certification.

Effective crime-related CCTV surveillance is a specialised role, requiring both keen attention and professional training; it cannot be treated as a mere afterthought. Though the investment may seem significant, ensuring the safety of our community is reason enough to find the necessary resources. History confirms we always do.

Paceville’s population is set to rise further in the coming years, presenting increasing challenges for both the police and the wider community. This reality underscores the need for enhanced law enforcement measures. After the Broken Window Theory has taken effect, establishing a dedicated on-site police station, complete with a functional detention suite, should be introduced as the third pillar. Simply having a police station is not enough; a proper holding facility is essential, as detention serves as a true deterrent.

This is not an impossible dream. It simply requires multiple government departments to sing from the same hymn sheet, coordinating resources and manpower. One may object to the above, considering them draconian measures, yet, they are not. In truth, such action is vital, not merely to reclaim order but to nurture both the present and the future.

It is through this resolve that justice and law are attainable for Paceville.

M

Mark Grima is a broadcaster and executive in Malta’s entertainment and leisure industry.