Updated | Hunters’ monitor’s car vandalised in the course of his duties

An official of the Wild Birds Regulation Unit’s Specialist Enforcement Branch found his private car vandalised on Monday 15 September near Ta’ Pinu church in Gozo, upon returning from field monitoring duties at a bird sanctuary.

Whilst Gozo police are investigating the incident, it is suspected that the act of vandalism is related to official’s enforcement duties.

Condemning the incident, Parliamentary Secretary Roderick Galdes said that through legislative and regulatory measures enacted over the past few months to ensure zero-tolerance policy towards bird-related crime, the government drastically narrowed the window of criminal opportunity for would-be poachers and law-breakers.

“As a result, the past few months have seen a reduction in the number of incidents of illegal targeting of protected birds.

“This is why there are strong reasons to believe that the despicable cowardly act of vandalism is an attempt at harassing and putting pressure upon a public official in exercise of his duties. Such attempts at intimidation will not be tolerated and anyone found guilty of harassing a public official will face full brunt of the law,” Galdes said.

In a reaction, Kaccaturi San Ubertu (KSU) "unreservedly condemn the cowardly vandalistic act". 

"KSU augur that police investigations lead to the apprehension of whoever is responsible and the maximum penalty for such crime be applied. KSU take this opportunity to congratulate the WBRU and the forces of law for their excellent work and dedication and offers its full support and cooperation."