Malta is strengthening its frontline policing with a €2 million investment in a new fleet of vehicles aimed at boosting visibility and response across the country.

A total of 36 vehicles have been added, including 30 for the Rapid Intervention Unit and six for the Road Policing Unit, effectively doubling the resources available to both divisions. The move supports a prevention focused approach that prioritises a constant police presence in communities.

Interior Minister Byron Camilleri said the vehicles are intended to remain on the road at all times as part of the force’s prevention strategy, with a strong emphasis on visibility among the public. He said a constant police presence helps build trust, reassures communities and acts as a deterrent, linking the approach to Malta’s low crime rate and its standing among the safest countries in Europe.

The investment also forms part of the Malta Preparata strategy, combining expanded police presence with improved working conditions for officers. Camilleri said doubling the fleet will allow police to extend their reach while providing a better working environment, as part of a broader effort to modernise the force through upgraded equipment, facilities and pay.

Around €1 million of the funding comes from European sources, co financing 16 specialised vehicles for the Rapid Intervention Unit. European Affairs Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi said this reflects how EU funds are being used to strengthen national security capacity.

The new vehicles are equipped with advanced technology and form part of a wider strategy focused on continued investment in security, prevention and modernisation.

Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà said the investment is already delivering measurable results. Over the past year, RIU officers carried out more than 612,000 kilometres of patrols and conducted over 3,400 road checks, a significant increase on previous years. This has coincided with a decline in serious traffic accidents and continued positive trends in crime rates.

The Road Policing Unit has also expanded its role, moving beyond enforcement to include the investigation of serious traffic incidents. Officers have received specialised training abroad and are being given additional resources to improve efficiency.

Recent measures, including the introduction of roadside drug testing, have further strengthened efforts to improve road safety and public protection.