Letters • December 28 2003

Police inaction on Hamrun disturbances

Charles Zahra
Hamrun

For the last few weeks I have tried to report an unemployed 17 year old, who lives in Govt Buildings Triq Wenzinu Mifsud Bonnici, Hamrun. Whenever he feels like it, and at any time from early morning to late in the evening this person hikes up the volume of his stereo. The sound is so loud that even decorative items on the furniture in our house move. He does not seem to give a damn if people are sick or want to rest as they work shifts.
At first the Police said that, if they could, they would come to investigate. But tonight at 18.50 hours when I phoned the Hamrun Police Station, to once again report the case, I was informed by PC 1243 (at least that is what he said) that they will only come if I fill in a report so I could take this person to court.
So now it seems the public has to do the police’s job, and report anyone who breaks the law so the police do not have to dirty their hands. If this is the case can anyone inform the public why we are paying the police wages?
In this area of Hamrun, there are 16 and 17 years olds driving cars, but no one cares to report them as if you do, you risk being known by these persons which means more problems for you.
This seems to be an no go area as the Hamrun Police don't want to do their job. Everyone does as he or she pleases: cars parked on yellow lines, in corners and always stereos full blast. As happens in our block of flats there are kids of all ages who drink and party; and disturb the peace. Why does Parliament waste its time and our money to pass laws if the police don't even bother to see that everyone abides by them. In my days the police were the refuge we all had against anyone who feels they can do whatever they want, but do we now?
In Malta it seems that the good law-abiding public have to pay the price for those who it seems are untouchables. If someone tries to achieve justice by taking the law into his or her own hands they will end up in jail because of the situation we live in.
The police should protect the public and not run away from their duties. I, like the most of the tenents in these flats have had trouble with this family nearby who don't seem to care about anyone or anything.