20 Domestic Violence Victims Given Panic Alarms In First Month Of Rollout
Twenty high-risk domestic violence victims have been issued panic alarms in the first month since the Victim Support Agency (VSA) launched the initiative in July.
Figures provided to The Malta Independent show that 18 of the recipients were women, 16 living in Malta and two in Gozo, while two men in Malta were also given alarms. In three cases, the devices were later withdrawn after the victims reconciled with their aggressors.
The small, discreet devices act as a silent lifeline, transmitting the victim’s GPS location directly to the police when activated, triggering an immediate response.
VSA CEO Brian Farrugia explained that the alarm is “not the service but the tool,” supported by IT systems, trained staff, and a multi-agency approach to ensure victims are never left alone in dangerous situations.
The panic alarm was first announced in Budget 2025 as part of Malta’s National Strategy Against Domestic Violence. It complements existing measures like the 24/7 helpline 116006, legal aid services, and the Domestic Violence Prevention Form, which allows individuals to check whether their partner has a history of violence.
Since its establishment four years ago, the VSA has supported more than 4,000 victims. Officials say the early success of the panic alarm suggests it could become a key part of Malta’s national strategy to protect victims and save lives.
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