€235 On The Spot Fines For People Caught Smoking Cannabis In Public

The €235 fine issued to people caught illegally smoking cannabis in public places will be added to the On the Spot Fines system, Minister for Home Affairs and Security Glenn Bedingfield has announced.

The move will allow the fine to be collected immediately from individuals who are not ordinarily resident in Malta. Speaking during a press conference held under the theme Malta Miegħek, the Minister stressed that smoking cannabis in public remains illegal under Chapter 537 of the Laws of Malta.

Bedingfield said that such behaviour affects people in the surrounding area and requires stronger enforcement. He added that while action must continue against drug trafficking and illegal activity, individuals facing drug dependency should also receive the necessary support through cooperation with non-governmental organisations.

The Minister also outlined the importance of security within Budget 2027, describing it as essential for Malta’s economic stability and quality of life. The Ministry for Home Affairs and Security will receive an allocation of almost €500 million next year, including €125.5 million in capital expenditure, representing an €80 million increase compared to the current year.

The allocation includes €150 million for the Malta Police Force, €143 million for the Armed Forces of Malta, €29 million for the Civil Protection Department and €37 million for the Correctional Services Agency.

Bedingfield said the investment would support equipment, training, surveillance and infrastructure, while highlighting a 66% decrease in theft rates over the past decade. He said the Government would continue investing in enforcement and crime prevention, adding that security is a right that should be enjoyed by everyone.

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