Known for crystal clear waters and lively nightlife, Malta has become one of the most popular summer destinations in Europe. More than 700,000 British travel every year to the archipelago, but UK authorities now warn of a growing risk in this Mediterranean destination: tourists should be especially aware of their drinks in night fun zones, according to the Daily Express.
According to the British Foreign Ministry of Foreign Affairs, several cases of drug addicts and private clubs have been recorded in Paceville, the main neighborhood of Malta’s nightlife.
Alert for those who visit Paceville
The authorities’ recommendation is clear: always keep the drinks under surveillance and carefully check the bills before paying. The warning is particularly directed to visitors in the Paceville area, where most bars and nightclubs frequented by tourists are concentrated, which, according to the same source, can facilitate the performance of criminals.
“Criminals have drugged people in some bars and private clubs in the Paceville neighborhood. They were forced to spend a lot of money or have been beaten,” read on the official warning of the British government.
How to act in case of emergency
In medical emergency situations, such as substance poisoning, the number to be contacted in Malta is 112. This number gives access to ambulance, police and firefighters services. If the incident involves foreign tourists, authorities also recommend immediate contact with the travel insurer and the tourist agency or operator.
DRUG LAW
Since 2021 Malta has legalized the cultivation and domestic consumption of cannabis, but only for residents. Public consumption remains forbidden, as is the possession by tourists, as referred to in the newspaper.
Anyone who is caught violating the law risks heavy fines, prison sentences and, in more severe cases, the ban on entry into the Schengen space for a period up to five years.
Although Malta is generally considered safe, the British authorities recall that “no trip is totally risk -free,” reinforcing the appeal to prudence, especially in the busiest tourist areas.
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