CLIFTON GRIMA SAYS NEW ON THE SPOT FINES SYSTEM WILL CLOSE LEGAL LOOPHOLE FOR UNPAID PENALTIES

Justice Minister Clifton Grima has welcomed the introduction of new regulations allowing immediate on-the-spot fines for non-residents who commit minor offences and contraventions in Malta.

Writing on Facebook, Grima said the measure will close a legal loophole that had allowed a number of fines issued to tourists and other non-residents to remain unpaid, while continuing to protect every person’s right to challenge a fine through the appropriate legal channels.

“Persuni li mhumiex residenti f’Malta issa se jkollhom iħallsu multi għal reati minuri u kontravenzjonijiet immedjatament fuq il-post,” Grima wrote, adding that the measure ensures a more effective, fair and responsible justice system.

The new regulations introduce a system where Police officers, LESA officials and Environment and Resources Authority officers can collect electronic payments directly from offenders at the time of the offence.

The measures were initially expected to come into force from 1 June, but their implementation was delayed during the election period.

Authorities said the changes aim to address the long-standing issue of non-residents leaving Malta without paying penalties, while improving enforcement and ensuring fines issued to visitors are properly collected.

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