CCTV cameras an effective deterrent

Republic street shop owners have seen a drop in crime since the installation of CCTV cameras in Valletta's prime shopping area last November.

Victor Fenech Azzopardi, president of the Republic Street Business Community Association told The Sunday Times last week: "The cameras are an effective deterrent and the shop owners are pleased with the results. Notices indicating that surveillance cameras are in operation in Republic Street have also proved useful."

The installation of the three cameras, which incorporate three cameras each, and three antennae, was funded by the Republic Street shop owners and a Maltacom sponsorship.

The Republic Street Business Community Association was established in 1987 and currently has about 200 members, which is about 80 per cent of Republic Street shop owners.

A police spokesman explained that CCTV footage has been used for investigative purposes in connection with crime in the area. The cameras are linked to the Control Room at Police headquarters in Floriana and are monitored by an officer.

Mr Fenech Azzopardi, who praised the police's co-operation and prompt action, explained that the police keep a log of all movements. Valletta council also has access to the police's footage.

"The introduction of more beats (police officers on patrol) in the area and the installation of these cameras resulted in more efficient policing. Discussions are already in progress to introduce similar systems in other areas of Valletta," the Police said.

An informed source explained that a pilot project involving surveillance cameras had been initiated in St Paul's Street some time ago. It proved so effective in deterring unsavoury characters that it was decided that each business area in the capital would set up a CCTV system on its own steam. It is understood that a similar project has been earmarked for Merchants Street.