Swieqi Residents Report Fresh Wave Of Tourist Vandalism, Public Urination And Disturbances

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Residents in Swieqi are raising the alarm once again after a series of incidents over the weekend allegedly saw a car vandalised, a tourist urinate from a third-floor balcony and another late-night disturbance prompt a police response.Speaking to the newsroom show that latest reports come as anti-social behaviour linked to tourism continues to dominate headlines, with residents insisting that while recent enforcement efforts are welcome, the problem is far from over.Perhaps the most serious incident occurred in Triq il-Qantar, where a car belonging to an elderly Maltese couple was allegedly left with a smashed window overnight.The incident happened near the junction with Triq S. Cannataci, the same street where authorities recently issued Malta’s first on-the-spot fines to tourists caught throwing bottles into the road.While there is no confirmed evidence identifying those responsible, residents suspect the damage may be linked to ongoing anti-social behaviour in the area, which has become a hotspot in recent weeks. Efforts are now underway between residents and the Swieqi Local Council to push for CCTV cameras to be installed.Elsewhere, residents also reported an incident in Triq il-Qatta, where a tourist allegedly urinated from a third-floor balcony onto the street below.Meanwhile, in Triq ta’ l-Għoqod, police were called to a residential block following reports of excessive noise after 11pm. Although officers reportedly attended the scene, a resident claimed that no on-the-spot fines were issued.The incidents come just days after the government highlighted what it described as the first night in Swieqi without reports of tourist-related anti-social behaviour.However, residents say these latest cases show the issue remains ongoing, arguing that authorities must continue enforcing regulations throughout the busy summer months rather than treating isolated quiet nights as a sign that the problem has been solved.Many residents living in Swieqi, St Julian’s and Sliema have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement, additional CCTV coverage and tougher action against disruptive behaviour, saying they continue to bear the brunt of Malta’s party tourism.What do you think of this situation?•