Malta’s Police Instructed To Follow New Procedures When Handling Domestic Violence Cases
The Malta Police Force has published a new Standard Operating Procedure to be applied when handling domestic violence cases.
The procedure will break down and clarify the guidelines which all police members must follow.
“The Malta Police Force’s efforts to improve their response to domestic and gender-based violence cases are vital in ensuring that victims receive the necessary support and protection,” the statement read.
“The updated SOP and establishment of the GB&DV (Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence) Unit are significant steps towards achieving this goal.”
The statement which was published on Tuesday, stated that the Standard Operating Procedure will ensure that an inquiry, led by Judge Geoffrey Valenzia regarding Bernice Cassar née Cilia, is implemented.
This came after Valenzia had said that the system failed Bernice.
The police are committed to working towards the recommendations that have surfaced from Valenzia’s inquiry.
Apart from highlighting the police’s roles and responsibilities, the SOP also includes specialized training to help them deal with such cases.
“The GB&DV Unit has 48 officials, and there is now an internal call for officials who wish to join this division, with the aim of continuing to strengthen the human resources of this unit,” the statement read.
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