Police arrest dangerous armed man after six-hour operation

An armed man, considered to be dangerous was arrested in Pieta after a six-hour operation on Sunday evening. 

At around 8pm in Triq Bordin, Pieta’ the police were called in to give assistance at a residence.

Photo: Malta Police Force

Photo: Malta Police Force

Reports suggested that a man was causing damage to his neighbours’ property. When the police arrived to intervene, the individual, who is a Serbian national, began threatening the police with knives as well as a gun.

The accused’s neighbours were also reportedly afraid of him because of his behaviour.

Photo: Malta Police Force

Photo: Malta Police Force

Police from the Rapid Intervention Unit, the Special Intervention Unit, and the District Police were on scene along with three ambulances and paramedics.

During the six-hour operation, the inspector who was leading the negotiations from outside was heard telling the accused to give himself up several times. 

Photo: Malta Police Force

Photo: Malta Police Force

At around 1:30am Animal Welfare officers intervened, shooting a tranquilliser dart at the pitbulls the accused had with him, after gaining access from the upstairs neighbours

Photo: Malta Police Force

Shortly afterwards at around 2am, the Police intervened after shooting four warning shots and entering the home. The Serbian man was arrested and removed from the premises.