Police officer Johann Vella, who was critically injured after being shot in the line of duty in Ta’ Giorni last month, has shared an emotional update, saying he is “still here, fighting and getting better every day.”In a heartfelt Facebook post, the Special Intervention Unit (SIU) officer thanked the many people he says helped save his life following the shooting.He paid tribute to his fellow police officers who were first on the scene.“No matter what training we have received, none of them was prepared for something like that, me included, but they persevered and thanks to them I got to an ambulance alive,” he wrote.Vella also expressed his gratitude to the emergency teams, Intensive Therapy Unit staff and everyone involved in his care at Mater Dei Hospital.“I would like to give my greatest thanks and appreciation to all the hospital emergency staff, the ITU staff and all the staff on my current ward. Without them I am sure that I would not have made it,” he said.He also thanked Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà, Prime Minister Robert Abela, President Myriam Spiteri Debono, Opposition Leader Alex Borg, as well as members of the judiciary who supported him and his family during the ordeal.Saving his most personal message for last, Vella paid tribute to his loved ones.“Last but not least, I would like to thank my wonderful family… Most of all my amazing wife and kids. They have always been, are and will always be the reason why I breathe every day.”Vella was shot in the face and neck while responding to an incident in Triq Joseph Carbone, Ta’ Giorni, alongside fellow officer Omar Sharif, who sustained minor injuries.The alleged gunman, John Agius, known as “Johnny tal-Għalqa”, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including attempted murder, resisting police and the illegal discharge of a firearm.Police believe the incident may have stemmed from an ongoing property dispute.After spending more than a week in critical condition, Vella was transferred out of the Intensive Therapy Unit earlier this week as his recovery continues.•