LESA Officers Unveiled New Look and Body-Worn Cameras
LESA officials have unveiled a new look and introduced body-worn cameras, in a move aimed at strengthening both citizen safety and officer protection.
The announcement was made by Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment Byron Camilleri, who emphasised that public order “is not a luxury, but a necessity.” He explained that security and justice are basic rights in a modern society, which is why the government has decided to extend the use of body-worn cameras to LESA officials.
The decision follows the positive results achieved after the Malta Police Force introduced bodycams a few years ago, which led to a notable decrease in confrontations and false allegations. “The introduction of body-worn cameras for the Police led to fewer cases of violence against officers, almost cut in half, and fewer unfounded complaints. It’s not just about numbers, it’s a cultural shift. Citizens are less aggressive when they know they’re being recorded, and officers act more professionally knowing their actions are documented,” said Minister Camilleri.
Starting on Tuesday 21st October, LESA officers’ new cameras will record two minutes of footage before activation, ensuring full transparency and context in every situation. “Too often we hear stories of citizens claiming unfair treatment or officers being falsely accused. Without evidence, truth becomes opinion. These bodycams eliminate doubts, address abuse and protect integrity,” added the Minister.
Alongside the introduction of the body-worn cameras, LESA officers will also benefit from a wider investment package which includes new uniforms designed for greater safety and comfort, new motorcycles to improve traffic response times, enhanced training and professional development, as well as improved working conditions overall.
LESA Chief Executive Officer Svetlick Flores explained that these developments form part of a broader strategy to modernise the agency. “This is about giving our officers the right tools for their job, modern equipment that improves response time and boosts their presence on the streets,” he said.
#MaltaDaily