Police officers honoured for bravery, leadership, service at annual awards

A number of police officers were recognised for their exceptional work above and beyond the call of duty in the annual police awards ceremony.

All the award recipients were nominated by their colleagues.

PC 2384 Christine Penza was awarded the Police Officer of the Year for her unwavering commitment since joining the Gender-Based and Domestic Violence Unit. Her meticulous work ensure that victims’ safety and wellbeing were always prioritized, the police said.

Fr Raymond Bonnici was presented with the Police Civilian of the Year award for his 25 years of dedicated service. The police said Fr Bonnici has become “a pillar of strength and guidance” within the Force, going beyond his official duties to support its members.

Fr Raymond Bonnici was recognised for his 25 years of service to the police force. Photo: Malta Police

Inspector Lydon Zammit received the Outstanding Leadership Award for his work within the Major Crimes Department with the entire team in that department being recognized with the Team Award for achieving exceptional results last year including solving all murder cases for the seventh consecutive year.

PS 767 Ismael Vassallo was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his long-standing service and within the police ICT department.

PS805 Ian Terribile received the Innovative Problem Solving Award and was praised for his forward-thinking ideas and digital proposals that streamlined administrative processes and enhanced inter-agency collaboration.

PS 834 Johann Vella was presented with the Health and Wellness Advocate Award for his passionate promotion of physical and mental wellbeing. He played a key role in integrating sports and wellness into daily police routines through regular fitness sessions.

PC1314 Kylie Aquilina received the Rising Star Award after demonstrating exceptional commitment in just 18 months of service.

Maria Regina College Network were recognized for their outstanding collaboration with the Police Force and presented with the Police-Community Partnership Award.

Seven officers were awarded the Commissioner’s Certificate of Commendation for acts of bravery and selflessness, including saving a woman from losing her hand in a school gate, foiling a supermarket burglary, and apprehending the suspects.

For the first time, the Police Force handed out the Best Social Media Award. PS1404 Dale Cassar was awarded for capturing a heartfelt moment of a colleague helping a young girl at a traffic accident, a post that touched the heart of thousands online.

This social media image of a police officer comforting a child at a car accident earned PS Dale Cassar the Best Social Media Award. Image: Malta Police

The Police Sports Committee, Police Band, Social Committee and the Community Policing Teams were all commended with a Social Responsibility Award for raising over €50,000 for local charities.

PC Hertian Vassallo received the Role Model Award from the Public Service.

Addressing the awards ceremony, Home Affairs minister Byron Camilleri praised the individuals for their exceptional service and dedication, noting that the team spirit also helped.