The Maltese police have stepped up their fight in the war against illegal immigration with the announcement that they will assume some duties previously assigned to the army with regards to patrols of the Island’s coastline.

Police has asked for tenders to supply the immigration section with over €1 million worth of boats, vehicles, electronic and observation equipment. Though reluctant to discuss details of the new decision, the government confirmed that it has existing human resources of around two dozen people and would not rule out an increase once the new equipment is placed at their disposal. Authorities added that any increase in illegal immigration would also necessitate a rise in resources.

Previously, the immigration section was complemented by police officers from other sections of the force depending on the nature of the case.

The new tender calls for three new vehicles to be commissioned to better suit the needs of the border force. There is also a call for a new fibreglass boat along with dinghies and transport trailers. Other equipment asked for includes night-vision goggles and binoculars, high-resolution digital cameras, telephoto lenses, 15 new laptops, 40 PDA’s and 40 two-way waterproof radios.

The tender request stipulates that end-to-end service of all equipment must be made by the supplier, including manufacture or supply and maintenance.

The government has said that in order to strengthen surveillance and control of its borders the new increase in resources was essential. He added that current equipment was often out-of-date or difficult to maintain.

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