A comparative analysis delving into criminality in the (nuts 4) districts of Malta : a public's perception

Abstract

This research analysed crime on a spatio dimensional level with special attention to four types of crime being, prostitution, vandalism, theft and property crime. These were investigated under the NUTS 4 level, comprising of the six Districts of the Maltese Islands. The aim of this dissertation is to pin-point hotspots and patterns of such offences according to how they were perceived by the participants. The objective was achieved through a semi-structured questionnaire, which was electronically distributed to the students of the University of Malta. This survey sought to compare the public's perception to what has been recorded in the actual crime reports for the year 2010. The public's perception, which was partially reflected in the actual statistics, portrayed the image that the Northern Harbour District is the District in which most crimes such as prostitution, vandalism and prope1iy crime tend to occur. Specifically, 'Gzira', 'St. Julians' and 'Sliema' were respectively identified for these three crimes. Conversely, the Southern Harbour District was noted to suffer from high theft-related offences, particularly perceived in 'Valletta'. The data gathered was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences and the Geographic Information Systems. Some recommendations were provided to counteract the crime problem within the Districts. These essentially relate to enhanced control through the implementation of tougher penalties and increased police foot patrols. Moreover, education of the public should also be encouraged, as the deterrence from falling into the crime environment is a primary crime-curbing measure.