AFM investigating Maltese soldiers' clash with civilians in Greece

The Armed Forces of Malta has launched an intensive investigation to ascertain the facts surrounding Maltese soldiers in Mitilini on the Greek island of Lesvos, who were involved in a clash with Greek civilians on Tuesday.

The five soldiers were serving on the Frontex Joint-Operation "Poseidon".

A Frontex statement said the soldiers were involved in a violent argument with local nightclub patrons and were arrested by the Greek police.

An AFM spokesman said this afternoon that the alleged incidents occurred during the soldiers’ off-duty hours.

“The AFM troops on Lesvos were immediately recalled to Malta even before the Frontex director issued an online statement.

“The soldiers arrived this afternoon and the AFM has launched an intensive investigation to ascertain the facts.”

A number of Maltese soldiers remain on the Greek island of Samos.