People have a right to feel safe – Graham Bencini

The ninth and 10th districts I represent were for many decades the symbol of one of best quality of lives one can achieve. Early morning mass and a chat on the way home; a walk along the Sliema front at sunset during the stifling August heat to catch the sea breeze; a jog at sunrise from the ‘Love’ monument in St Julian’s to Manoel Island and back; a coffee at the Gabbana; a swim along the coast; a meal at one of the many restaurants and clubbing in Paceville.

The area is home to both old and young and a place to visit for many more Maltese and tourists. It is as beautiful as it is sometimes chaotic but possesses a charm few can stay away from. Ask anyone who was born and bred in the area and they will always have a yearning to return.

Recently, this has changed. Rape and murder on the beach; the Sliema mayor being attacked; a man’s assault as he jogged peacefully; knife attacks in Paceville; spates of robberies; brawls and gangs. You name it, we’ve seen it all over the past few years. The peace and tranquillity we have enjoyed for so long has been shattered.

There is an air of fear and apprehension that lingers. The elderly no longer feel safe in their homes, nor do they feel...