Updated | Two men arrested for vandalising cars in Swieqi

Two Irish men were arrested this morning after allegedly damaging several vehicles in Swieqi.

The incident occurred early this morning at around 4:30am, when patrolling police officers spotted the men vandalising several parked cars in Triq is-Swieqi and Triq is-Sidra. Upon spotting the police, the men are said to have attempted to flee and resist arrest, but their attempt was thwarted by RIU officials. 

Sources said that the vandals were arrested after they were hitting and scratching the cars. Several of the vehicles had their side mirrors smashed, while others had several dents on their doors.

The men are expected to be arraigned in court within the coming days.

Disgruntled Swieqi residents and successive local councils have for years been asking for an increased police presence in the criminality stricken locality.

But, despite Swieqi getting a police station in April, vandalism to private property – mostly cars – is still prevalent, moreso during the summer months as an influx of weekend revelers and language students descend to the area.  

The problem of vandalism has also spilled to neighbouring Pembroke, with its mayor, Dean Hili, adamant that the majority of incidents are caused by students returning home after a night out in Paceville.