Updated July 26 

Two men were injured in an argument over a mask while boarding a Gozo Channel ferry from Mġarr on Sunday.

Sources said that the ferry's chief officer was assaulted by some passengers who refused to wear a face mask, as obliged under current COVID-19 regulations.

The police confirmed the incident, which they said took place at around 6.30pm. 

They said two men - a 31-year-old man from Victoria and a 34-year-old man from Żabbar - had to be taken to Gozo General Hospital for treatment. Both men were treated for slight injuries. 

In a statement later, the Gozo Ministry and the Gozo Channel management condemned the attack and said such behaviour was unacceptable. They expressed solidarity with the worker, who they said was now in a good condition.

UĦM Voice of the Workers also condemned the attack and urged Gozo Channel to start having police officers stationed on ferries to ensure public health guidelines are enforced.

The union also said it expected police to press charges against aggressors in this case.

"Unfortunately we are seeing the rise of a 'do-as-I-please' culture, with no respect for laws or those who try to enforce them," it said.