Malta Reacts: Many Say On The Spot Fines For Tourists Are Too Cheap

Calls for stricter penalties against tourists who cause public disturbances are mounting after 12 young people were fined a total of around €2,000 following disturbances in Swieqi.

Police were called to Triq Cannataci on Sunday after receiving reports of excessive noise and a disturbance at an apartment block. The group was issued on-the-spot administrative fines for breaching public order and the peace, as well as for illegal littering.

The penalties have sparked debate online, with many arguing that the fines are not severe enough to deter disruptive behaviour. Some social media users said the €2,000 total should have been imposed on each individual rather than shared between the group.

Others called for tougher consequences altogether, suggesting that serious offenders should face penalties such as community service or even imprisonment, rather than financial sanctions alone.

Some also argued that issuing fines just lands more money in the government’s pockets, while Swieqi residents are still left to suffer.

Police also confirmed that they issued 17 on-the-spot fines over the weekend as part of ongoing enforcement efforts.

Once again, locals are feeling that this number is too low, and knowing the alleged chaos during weekends, they argue that many more fines could have been issued.

#MaltaDaily