Council demands immediate, effective action after latest Sliema seafront fracas

Sliema Council has demanded immediate, effective action by the authorities to stop repeated cases of antisocial behaviour and violence along the locality's seafront.

Times of Malta on Monday published footage showing young men punching and kicking each other across both sides of the road. One clip showed a young man being held in a headlock against a car bonnet.

The council said such dangerous behaviour, allegedly linked to the return of organised boat parties, was not an isolated incident.

It said it had, for a number of years, consistently raised concerns with the relevant authorities, calling for a stronger police presence and a coordinated enforcement strategy to address the disorder, protect public safety, and safeguard the quality of life of Sliema residents.

While expressing appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of the officers from the Sliema Police Station and the Community Police, the council said the issue extends far beyond the efforts of individual officers.

"The recurring scenes of violence, public disorder, traffic disruption and antisocial behaviour demonstrate that the current approach is no longer sufficient. A broader, coordinated response involving all the competent authorities is urgently required," it insisted.

"Residents have the right to feel safe in their own locality, and visitors should be able to enjoy Sliema without witnessing scenes that put lives at risk and damage the reputation of one of Malta's principal tourism destinations."

It therefore called for immediate action, including increased police resources during peak periods, enhanced coordination between all relevant agencies, and a comprehensive review of the management of activities that generate these recurring public order issues.

"The time for discussing the problem has passed. Effective and decisive action must now be taken before a more serious incident occurs," it insisted.