[WATCH] Officer who disarmed two gun-wielding men named officer of the year

A police officer who disarmed a pistol-wielding hostage-taker earlier this year was named the ‘Officer of the Year’ following his bravery.

In March, police constable Justin Spiteri was shot in the leg when he disarmed a man who had been holding a woman hostage at gun point in Mosta. Officers had managed to break into the room where the man was locked, whereupon the man opened fire, hitting himself and then the sergeant’s leg.

This was not Spiteri’s only commendable act this year after in May, he disarmed a second gunman, this time when he was off duty.

The St Julian's police district won the police shield after registering the highest drop in criminality

The annual awards ceremony recognises officers' bravery and exemplary work in line of conduct

The awards ceremony, which was presided by home affairs minister Carmelo Abela and police commissioner Lawrence Cutajar, also saw the St Julian’s Police District awarded the force shield for registering the highest drop in criminality rate.

District 6A is made up of St Julian’s, Paceville, Ibragg, Swieqi, St Andrew’s, High Ridge, Pembroke and San Gwann.

Another 14 officers were awarded a certificate of merit during the ceremony at the police headquarters this morning. These are: sergeants John Grima, Johan Said, Conrad Ellul and Brian Mifsud, and police constables John Grima, Joseph Cini, David Xerri, Althea Sammut, Adrian Mackay, Nigel Mallia, Svetlick Stellini, Steven Incorvaja, Alain Cutajar and Stephen Cutajar.

The award commended the officer’s bravery in their line of duty and their exemplary work.