A site located on the boundary of the Dwejra Natura2000 site was dismantled by the Gozo Police at the weekend after a report made by the Malta Ranger Unit.

The Rangers said that even though the season closed weeks ago the site had decoys of Northern Lapwing (illegally to trap) and Golden Plovers, as well as clap nets.

The MRU commented that “many would think that the rain and windy weather stops the environmental criminals. However, it’s usually the opposite. We are usually seeing an increase in illegalities on such days.”

It once again highlighted that Gozo still doesn’t have an Environmental Protection Unit Police, hence the district Police have to answer our reports for poaching. Unfortunately, since they have their normal District duties, environmental crimes won’t have priority over such.”

The MRU stated that the site was quite inaccessible, however the Police managed to dismantle the site and confiscated all equipment.

“We will continue to call for a specialised EPU Police in Gozo,” said the Malta Ranger Unit. “Without that, the environmental criminals will feel the impunity to continue their illegalities and harm the Maltese flora and fauna.”

Photo: Malta Ranger unit

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