The Police Traffic Section has continued with its modernisation drive with the inclusion of 15 new motorcycles that were purchased for €214,000 after a public call was made.

The Section now has 59 motorcycles, 50 in Malta and nine in Gozo with some of the new bikes replacing others.

Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar said the investment will increase the efficiency and security of Traffic Police. Three of the new bikes will be assigned to Gozo.

Inspector Nikolai Sant, one of the two Inspectors in the Section, explained that the new models chosen will offer a number of advantages.

He said the rider will have a bike easier to manoeuvre and this will help when they are used during rush hours and when they have to move between and around vehicles such as in cases of emergency or when acting as escorts. The Inspector said riders had the opportunity to test the bikes in difficult conditions that included rain, cold weather and ice.

The inauguration of the bikes took place outside the Naxxar Police Station which has been recently renovated.

Commissioner Cutajar said the Naxxar Station has been completely renovated and has been modernised and made comfortable for those working there and will also provide greater comfort for the public when they visit the Station. He said there is a further extensive project on the Police Station at Marsascala where renovation work is ongoing.

Internal Affairs Minister Michael Farrugia said the force will be making further investment including a fleet of 50 new vehicles to be distributed throughout districts and sections within the force. He said further investment is also being made in the fight against organised crime.