The role of the armed forces of Malta in Maritime Law enforcement and crime prevention

Abstract

Maritime Law Enforcement is a subject of great concern to many countries, which exercise maritime jurisdiction. Two-thirds of our world is covered by waters, which are used on a daily basis for the transportation of materials, the exploration and exploitation of resources as well as for a multitude of other purposes. It is therefore essential that some form of international or domestic control be present to make sure that one of the world's greatest resources is not abused of or tampered with. For this purpose most countries of the world have their own law enforcers at sea, who make sure that both internationally recognised and domestic maritime related laws be adhered to. In Malta, this is the primary role of the Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta, the major entity at sea, having the jurisdiction of enforcing all laws and regulations pertaining to the sea; starting form the basic control of swimmer zones in bays and extending to the surveillance of Malta's continental shelf area, many miles beyond Maltese shores. This research paper will analyse the duties of the Maritime Squadron in relation to maritime law enforcement and crime prevention, and will discuss both international and domestic maritime related laws applicable. Following this, quantitative statistical data will be presented as to the work carried out in the field of maritime law enforcement, month. by mouth, by the Squadron since 1995. This data will then be analysed in a qualitative manner, using the concept of participant observation and answers will be given as to why and what, has brought about such figures/results in the quantitative research. The study will end by giving a recommended strategy that could be implemented by the Squadron for improvements in crime prevention and maritime law enforcement.