‘This was unprovoked aggression – bullying’
Marsaxlokk victim won’t press charges
Tents have completely taken over the beach. Photo: Jason Borg
As the police prepare to appeal against the €60 fines handed to five men who caused a ruckus at Il-Magħluq beach in Marsaxlokk on Sunday, the victim and his family remain unwilling to take the case any further.
The incident sparked uproar, with images of the five men becoming the talk of the town and people objecting to the fines they received.
But Christopher Haber, who agreed to drop charges so the case could be forgotten, knows he stands nothing to gain from the appeal.
His decision to renounce criminal action prevented the courts from declaring the men guilty of causing him slight injuries.
Instead, the men were fined €60 for swearing and breaching public peace.
Mr Haber, a Marsaxlokk resident, simply wants to get on with his life and put the ordeal behind him.
He has no intention of provoking them into potential retaliation.
Things would have been different, he said, if the fines imposed by the court could be saved for his use in case his injuries proved more serious down the line, as a form of compensation.
Although the doctors who examined Mr Haber deemed his injuries to be minor, he said he was still feeling pain in his chest and stiffness in his upper body from all the blows he received.
“This wasn’t a fight,” he said, stressing that the event was not even a protest but a meeting where residents were invited to express their concerns about the deterioration of the area.
His concerns were not related to the tents but that boats in the area were being vandalised.
“This was unprovoked aggression – bullying. And no one stopped them to help me,” he said, stressing that he never wanted any trouble and was not a violent person.
He also thinks the organisers should have informed the police beforehand, especially considering the meeting was held so close to the people they were criticising.
His family is particularly upset that no local institutions have stood up to protect him. The Church and political parties have remained silent, even though they often reacted to such incidents, according to his family. He has also lost faith in the public.
“Look at all the people writing comments on the internet and saying the fines were unjust... No one stood up for me when I was attacked.”
Meanwhile, families who set up camps at Marsaxlokk yesterday seemed undeterred by the planning authority’s enforcement notice telling them to leave the area. Martin Tonna, from Żabbar, said his family only descended on the beach for the Santa Marija festivities and would have left by the time the Malta Environment and Planning Authority forced them out.
He deemed the matter unfair because, as a taxpayer, he felt he should have the right to use the beach, which was not there just for people from Marsaxlokk.
Mr Tonna added that the area was full of rats before it started being used by the campers and it was absurd to think they would pollute the area in which they were living.
Steve Bugeja, also from Żabbar, said that his family always left the place cleaner than they had found it and, although he would be abiding by the enforcement notice, he did not agree with it.
Though some of the campers spoke cordially, others betrayed an aggressive nature.
One man threatened The Times after it obtained a comment from a willing female relative.
“If I see that clip on television I will get you and break your camera,” he warned aggressively.
Meanwhile, writing on behalf of other Marsaxlokk residents, Jean Claude Micallef has asked Ministers Jason Azzopardi and Mario de Marco, responsible for the Land Department and planning authority respectively, to impose stricter law enforcement.
He lamented that three bays were still occupied by campers.
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118 Comments
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Francesca Abela
Aug 18th 2012, 00:56
The governent can set aside some space for an official organized campsite in the area near razzett tal hbieberija in Marsascala., there is plenty of space there, people can use the pool facility at the Razzett tal Hbieberuja. Wont involve much in cost, instead of the concrete jungle that seems to be the new garden, some areas can be with grass and trees, shower block and toilet. Then campers pay a small charge to go toward the upkeep of the area. How about it?
C. Custo'
Aug 17th 2012, 17:56
Funnily enough, when in April I had asked the Marsaskala local council whether it is permitted to camp at Zonqor point, they told me that they will contact the Lands Department and if I did not get any answer from the local council I shall call Lands Department myself. Since I did not get an answer from 1 week before, I called the Lands Department throughout the whole week and never got them on the line !! Than what do you expect from people..
Francesca Abela
Aug 16th 2012, 23:50
What about the huge gazebos everyone is putting up now?? They take up as much space as 4 seperate umbrellas, or a tent or a caravan. Malta's beaches are already small, this latest craze for Gazebos on the beaches should also be stopped. Gazebos are for lawns and big gardens not for the beaches.
Joseph Vassallo, (Bugibba)
Aug 16th 2012, 22:19
@ James Dewar today 11:45
In certain cases the court has the obligation to take the initiative (e.g. cases of entrapment) to see that the law is not manipulated. I am wondering if this might be such an instance because of the perceived intimidation. I can understand the victim not wanting to subject his family to threats and retribution from an obviously uncouth lot. But then again, he should have thought of that before he confronted his assailants because now, the public at large is technically being threatened.
One thing however... I have long held the opinion that a victim should never be asked by a court to "forgive" his aggressor. It happens in our courts, as a matter of course and has always made me feel that the victim/witness is coerced/solicited by the court to "forgive" because of the feeling of being unchristian to deny forgiveness.
The aggressor does not have to ask for forgiveness but the court still asks victims if they are ready to "forgive". Does that make any sense? Maybe this is something for the Hon Dr Franco Debono LLD MP to take in hand. But I do not think it is among his proposed points that once the law has been defied, the process of justice has to run its course irrespective of whether the aggrieved wants to take civil action or not.
This is a case in point where retribution against a criminal action has been thwarted.
Victor Pulis
Aug 16th 2012, 18:04
He(one of the campers) deemed the matter unfair because, as a taxpayer, he felt he should have the right to use the beach, which was not there just for people from Marsaxlokk.
No one is stopping him from using the beach. But occupying the beach is illegal. In fact it is he who is preventing others from using the beach by setting up camp. Let's reason things out here and not try to sound like the victims. paying taxes does not give one the right to break the law.
Alfred G Grech
Aug 16th 2012, 17:59
This is a serious outrage and we the people demand that Parliament take up this issue and set up a commission to investigate it fully, to come up with solutions and to lay blame where it belongs. All the Mayors of Malta together should act and see that this gets done .
Victor Pulis
Aug 16th 2012, 15:30
The victim decided not to press charges all well and good.
But why were charges not pressed by MEPA when the camps were set up?
Why were the camps not ordered to be dismantled on the first day?
Why hve the law breakers been given another two weeks holiday on public land by MEPA?
Can anyone now put up camp on public beaches safe in the knowledge that unless there is a punch up the law breaking will remain un punished or does one have to be aggressive and a bully to get away with it?
James Dewar
Aug 16th 2012, 21:34
Victor, As seems to be the case with many current topics attracting much public comment... there are more questions than answers!
Ms maria bonnici
Aug 16th 2012, 15:25
how would one camp with rats........................let alone uncleanliness of the place.......................unthinkable
Carmel Camilleri
Aug 16th 2012, 15:23
To add insult to injury the campers were gven 16 days to move from the site. 16 more days of law breaking and when summer wll be over. Yes it is an insult to us all.
david debattista
Aug 16th 2012, 15:20
If only the courts in Malta and Gozo changed their ways and STOP AT TIMES giving power to the wrong people
THIS WILL ONLY RESULT IN MORE SERIOUS CRIMES !
G Schembri
Aug 16th 2012, 15:04
One of the campers said "he deemed the matter unfair because, as a taxpayer, he felt he should have the right to use the beach," Doesn't this camper realise that by putting up tens on the beach they are preventing other taxpayers, be they from Marsaxlokk or anywhere else, from using the beach. On certain beaches in Malta it is even illegal to have a barbeque let alone camp for days on end.
E. Azzopardi
Aug 16th 2012, 14:58
Fine, he told them that he will not press charges. It does not change anything. It still happened. So these "gentlemen" should get the maximum punishment, PLEASE, do the citizens have to beg?
Did I read that the bays are still occupied? But is there anybody in charge in this country or not?????
vella m
Aug 16th 2012, 14:49
Not even one of our politicians from both sides said anything,Ja qabda oqbra imbajda ,all of you are afraid of losing votes.Well It pays to be a bully in Malta.
carmen farrugia
Aug 16th 2012, 14:43
Such behaviour (or lack of) from people who should be protecting law abiding citizens is leading to the feeling of social disgust!! this story reminds me of an experience some years back when my neighbour was building erratically without any permits (in a green area). when i spoke to MEPA i was asked to make an official report. i explained that i lived alone and was afraid to do so because of possible consequences. Nothing was done except that some years later I found out that all the illegal building became legal.
Victor Zammit
Aug 16th 2012, 14:41
“But Christopher Haber, who agreed to drop charges so the case could be forgotten, knows he stands nothing to gain from the appeal.
His decision to renounce criminal action prevented the courts from declaring the men guilty of causing him slight injuries.
Instead, the men were fined €60 for swearing and breaching public peace.”
The reporting is misleading or there is something wrong with court procedure. I ask because since when are such crimes prosecuted on the complaint of the injured party?
jane galea
Aug 16th 2012, 14:34
Nixtieq nghid prosit lil MEPA ghax vera taf issolvi il-problemi ta kullhadd minghajr ma tirfes il-kallu ta hadd ghax fil-kaz tar-residenti laqghet it-talba li il-kampijiet jigu mnehhija u min naha l-ohra tat li dawk li qed jikkampjaw zmien bizzejjed biex jilhqu jghamlu il-vaganza kif xtaqu huma.Veru haddhom prosit nghir ghal intelegenza taghhom.
Mrs diana cottis
Aug 16th 2012, 14:28
Where are the comments from ministers and their shadow counterparts? Their silence is deafening. We should be hearing from; the Lands minister, Tourism (no use spending on ads about beautiful historic malta if tourists arrive and see this) Health, Resources (what is the water quality like with no sanitation and rubbish building up) Justice (why weren't the 60 Euro guys charged with illegal camping as well? What are the police doing?) and Environment. Political will is needed to make changes and see that laws are enforced for ALL taxpayers who just want a nice day at the beach.
fredu debono
Aug 16th 2012, 14:26
we are talking about the south of malta. what do you expect to find? x'jippretendu dawn li jokkupaw kullimkien u hadd ma jindahlilhom mela mhux il-mepa biss issa hi bazwija imma anke l-pulizija?
Stephen Magri
Aug 16th 2012, 16:49
u din x ghanda x taqsam? fejn hawn in north u is south f din naqra ta blata ta 50km? nahseb kollha minn naha t isfel ta Malta dawn ikkampjati hemmhekk.. fejn taf int? mort ghamilt xi statistici li ma nafux? U hallina minnek tridx
C. Custo'
Aug 17th 2012, 17:51
how lame, what do u expect in the north of malta! nothing?
X Borg
Aug 16th 2012, 14:24
It appears that our law allow a person to 'forgive' a person/s of a crime committed.
I think this is the basis fault of our legal system. The law should be there to protect society and the individual - strictly in that order.
Nobody should be able to negate a crime that has been committed. A crime is a crime against society and the individual.
Note that a civil case is different to a criminal case.
Joe Fenech
Aug 16th 2012, 14:09
Victor Vella
Today, 11:43
Spot on!
Joe Fenech
Aug 16th 2012, 14:08
Carmel Pule
I acknowledge that what you said is true, but there is also a problem of priorities in Malta. People say "I can't afford this or that" but then they spent a considerable part of their salary and time on hobbies. There is something quite wrong there!
Joe Scerri
Aug 16th 2012, 13:53
Maybe it's time for some bulldozers and tear gas. MEPA enforcement notices are just a piece of paper that are ignored and never followed up. The silence from PNPL is deafening. Unfortunately these people have votes and their votes are more important than upholding the law.
JJ Agius
Aug 16th 2012, 13:48
Why the victim have to press charges?there is enough evidence in pictures of what happened.
Why put all that pressure on the victim?Did he not suffer enough?I once phoned the police Depot to report someone driving up & down a road at high speed. I was told to give my name & I.D so I will be a witness.
Since than "rajt marajtx u smajt ma smajtx"
J.J.
Pamela Hansen
Aug 16th 2012, 13:46
K Vella and J Brincat.
None of the quotes you refer to are mine. I merely highlighted relevant points in the article above.
Victor Pulis
Aug 16th 2012, 13:35
Mr Haber, a Marsaxlokk resident, simply wants to get on with his life and put the ordeal behind him.
He has no intention of provoking them into potential retaliation.
That tells the whole story. Mr.Haber did not forgive his aggressors. he is merely aware that he has no protection whatsoever should he be attacked again. A non violent person stands no chance against such cave men unless he's protected by the law.
The area was occupid by rats before the campers moved in! And now?!
Meanwhile thanks to MEPA the law breakers have been given a two week reprieve to continue thair vacation till the end of August, practically the end of Summer. Well done MEPA and whoever is responsible for it.
Ruth Muscat
Aug 16th 2012, 13:31
well Mr Haber I don't blame you for not retaliating. No one defended you during, so what guarantee of defence do you have after?
Joe Fenech
Aug 16th 2012, 13:31
This guy is likely to be dropping charges simply because he fears retaliation. This system where people are charged only if the victim presses charges belongs to the dinosaur age.
The fine should have been 60E per day for the camping, 100E per day for littering, £2000 for illegal camping, 5000E for the violence, 3000E for preventing others from using the beach. The problems will be solved for good!
Kieron O'connor
Aug 16th 2012, 13:24
Nobody stood up for him when he was attacked, and even worse the courts didnt stand up for him when they were supposed to when the assailants were brought to court, instead they left it up to the intimidated man to make the decision.
To make the attack even worse those who carried out the attack sat outside the court laughing at what had taken place, laughing at the man who they attacked, laughing at the court and laughing at all the law abiding citizens in Malta and sticking there tongues out at everyone.
stephen mifsud
Aug 16th 2012, 14:51
you are so right ....so disrespectful to all law abiding people of Malta and they are mocking the courts the law the innocent and the nothing is being done as if these guys are the Mafia of Malta and it seems everyone is afraid of them including all political parties .... what a huge stupid but true joke .
Joseph Grech Attard
Aug 16th 2012, 13:23
Surprised at the aggressive, arrogant and 'laissez-faire' attitude? But it is the rule of the day in our little Island. Look at the way government rules!! 'Passive resistance' and 'civil disobedience' have been injected into our culture more than 25 years ago. The jungle rule is the rule of the day. It is what we were taught to understand by democracy, which, of course, is a lie. It shall take a lot of time and sacrifices to lessen it. But, where there's a will there's a way!
Peter Midler
Aug 16th 2012, 14:30
The people in general, especially law abiding citizens expect that Marsaxlokk 's dignity is quickly restored by removing all squatters and their 'permanent' camps and punish the criminal behaviour seen by us all!
It is not an excuse that the government (including parliament) should not intervene instead of the Police, the Courts, Mepa, tas-Sanita (Enviromental Heath) or the Local Council!!! If these all failed, the government (including parliament) cannot pass the buck back to these authorities!!
The government must find solutions. The opposition must criticise the government if solutions are not found!
Elections are close and it seems that both political parties are trying to distance themselves from this incident not to lose votes! But both these parties have lots to lose if they remain seen to stay as 'spectastors'! The party in power has much more to lose by inaction or by dragging the feet!!
Ahna minaghilina li iz-zmien il-"buffunati" spicca!!
A Mifsud
Aug 16th 2012, 13:14
i'm so sad that in my beautiful country people can take over a beach like this, unopposed by any authority.....and the authorities only feel the need (albeit very small) to take action when it blows up in the media.
S Farrugia
Aug 16th 2012, 13:10
If before it was full of rats, can't imagine now with what is it full!!! Do these people have sanitation basics? NO. So the rats have a bigger feast now! and not the mention the mosquitos, flies ... iiiii disgusting.
Robert Pace Bonello
Aug 16th 2012, 13:06
It is very sad to see that bullies can get away with murder and the law abiding citizens cannot live in peace because there is this culture. These bullies are cowards attacking Mr Haber and thr police must provide him and his family from this scum. I feel sorry for this gentleman who must fear for his and his familys safety. Who can blame him for not pursuing charges? There is no discipline and no justice. Indeed a shameful episode. The system has failed again
Stephen Saliba
Aug 16th 2012, 13:02
I said it before and I will say it again. Charge these goons at law for intimidation, bullying whatever BUT also pinch them forceably where it hurts first amd foremost. Their pocket. Amend the law retrocatively if necessary (possible?) and charge these baboons €6000 not €60. They are unfit to be part of a civil society. Make them 'pay' until the behave in a socially acceptable manner and most of all uphold the law like every decent citizen. Politicians of all hues please note the utter despair that the general public feels at the complete contempt that hooligans and troglodytes such as these impose.
Joe Xuereb
Aug 16th 2012, 13:00
I am so glad I never considered Law as a viable career. Just as well as I believe in justice not jokes. Look at those 'agħti Mulej, id-dehen lil min jaħkimha',(may the good Lord bestow wisdom upon those who rule over/lead us - part of the Maltese anthem, now needing urgent review. Dun Karm, the author of the words, would have one or two things to say from his grave, about the desecration of his noble sentiments) right from the very top (if you see what I mean), all good for nothing other than warming luxurious-Parliament-to-be seats. And basking in their revered social status as men 'li studjaw il-liġi' (who studied the statute books).
j brincat
Aug 16th 2012, 12:51
"Mr Haber, a Marsaxlokk resident, simply wants to get on with his life and put the ordeal behind him"
And can you blame remembering how he was pounced upon by the Rambos?
He may be fearing for his 'life & limb' He has a family to feed and look after!
(jb)
j brincat
Aug 16th 2012, 12:49
@K. Vella
"@ Pamela Hansen
Why do we try to turn everything into a political or religious issue in this country....a really micro mentality.
We have a legal system and let it take it course...."
Are you referring to the legal system which took its course and charged them €60?
(jb)
Pamela Hansen
Aug 16th 2012, 13:09
All I did was highlight poignant points in the article above. None of the quotes are mine.
Anthony Carbonaro
Aug 16th 2012, 12:38
So only one brave resident makes a move to improve the image of M'xlokk. Where were the other residents!!!!!!! and what about the Local Council ,Police and Law courts, after all the whole scene was videotaped. As Mr Degiovanni quotes bullying and might is right. What a shamfull incident to the authorities.
Mary Fisher
Aug 16th 2012, 13:08
HEAR! HEAR!
A. Sultana
Aug 16th 2012, 12:33
Jien dejjem emmint li l-kwiet ibati ghax ta fuq jara kif jghaffgu aktar.. U aktar ma jghaddi z-zmien aktar nikkonferma!
Min jaf li kieku ssir ricerka aktar fonda fuq dawn in-nies... x'hobz jieklu, x'xoghol jahdmu, kemm ihallsu taxxa ecc...
joe briffa
Aug 16th 2012, 12:32
Lets face it....do they look like well developed intellectuals...or NEANDERTHALERS???
Franco Abela
Aug 16th 2012, 12:28
"the area was full of rats before it started being used by the campers"
SHALL WE THANK YOU THEN? IF THERE ARE RATS WE CAN CALL PEST CONTROL SERVICES TO TAKE CARE OF IT. THERE IS NO NEED TO INVADE BEACHER WITH CAMPERS.
THANKS BUT NO THANKS!
Jay Oatmon
Aug 16th 2012, 12:24
When will the politicians take enforcement of the laws as a priority - the answer is never, their priority is staying power and collecting their perks.
Dr DeBono was right - the Malta courts and laws and procedures are a national disgrace which only protect the criminals, and they need urgent overhaul and enforcement needs to be a priority.
The public is not served by the politicians in Malta - they are serving themselves only.
John Attard
Aug 16th 2012, 12:19
Pressing charges is the only legal way forward. anything less is called Omertà. We do not live in Nicolosi
E Schembri
Aug 16th 2012, 14:28
Pressing charges will only infuriate these hooligans, as we all know that our laws glorify criminals and the victim is in no way protected or compensated by the courts. So why risk further beatings??
Either he takes the law in his own hands and gives them a taste of their medicine, or puts it all behind him and moves on with his life thanking God he is still alive.
Joseph DeGiovanni
Aug 16th 2012, 12:17
The moral is: It pays to be a bully.....and then we talk so much about tackling bullying in schools. Bullies survive while well mannered individuals go to the wall.
Jay Oatmon
Aug 16th 2012, 12:17
What we have is passing the buck with no person or authority willing to take responsibility - a total disgrace from a law enforcement aspect and protection of the public from mob violence!
Why are the main political parties keeping quiet - it is because they have no backbone to do what is right, they only do what is easy. So mumble talk is all we can expect, and this is a shameful disregard for the public's health and safety.
Peter Midler
Aug 16th 2012, 12:17
To my mind, asking the victim if he forgives his aggressors is only an excuse for the courts and the police to 'hide' behind the victim. It is as if saying to the criminals, "Sorry guys, but the victim has not forgiven you and now my hands are tied, I have no other option but to pass sentence according to the law".
And that is a shame. If sozpizicrime has been committed , those criminals must be punished. Mela intawlu "is-sentenzi sozpizi" wahda fuq l-ohra!!! The smirk on their faces as they left the court irritated and incensed a whole nation!!
Jekk hemm bzonn sur Gvern, ammenda il-ligi halli ma narawx aktar "buffunati".
Fejn irid il-gvern, isibuhom is-soluzjonijiet!
Pule' Carmel
Aug 16th 2012, 12:15
Looking at it in a deeper sense, I feel this is all a result of making people live in smaller and smaller city type of overcrowded accomodation and occassionally they need a break from such dismall accomodation MEPA is permitting people to live in.
Rich people go abroad, middle class people go to their villegatura, poor people seek camping and those who can afford it buy cabin cruisers! The land is so occupied that we will like rats start fighting each other to keep our heathy breathing space. I hope the architects who spend 5 years learnig at University will take account of how their building designs affecthimans in the long run and MEPA should take some responsibility, the schools should teach us how to respect each other while the church should also express its views.
The solution is not to hammer at certain groups of people but to hammer at the building authorites who do not know how building permits to build gabubi in high density comunities affect them in the long run.
Incidentally I have neither cabin cruisers not villegaturi, but I would like to camp somewhere to breath a little after Kalkara was infested with trucks going along Santa Liberata street because the other main roads to Ricasoli were built on MHazen which cannot take the heavy truck loads. I invite people to see what the authorites did to me by building Smart city before them planed the roads to it. So accoring to most people including authorites I must suffer the consewquences of the decisions taken by the stupid authorites with all their power. Any authority is invited to see the effect of the destruction of Wied tal Kalkara.
What are poor people supposed to do , be educated and die in overbuild areas as permited by MEPA????
I shll not react as the Marsaxlokk Campers did, but would the educated people please advise me how I can stop the authorites from enclosing me so tight that soon I cannot breath with the dust from Smart City trucks and now Arrive large sust making buses. Please advisem but I expect all educated people will expect me to act ethical and " HU PACENZJA SUR PULE'"
Jesmond Farrugia
Aug 16th 2012, 13:36
There are 2 issues, law enforcement and lack of open spaces for camping. It does not take an Einstein to solve these 2 trivial issues. After all Malta belongs to the Maltese and if there is a need for camping spaces, these should be set up and professionally managed. Obviosly they would be against a small fee and get ready for the moaners who expect everything for free to blame the government, opposition and whoevrer else.
Wilfred Camilleri
Aug 16th 2012, 14:44
What? Making people live in smaller and smaller city type of overcrowded accommodation? Have you ever been to New York or Hong Kong? That's real overcrowding. The total area of Manhattan is 33.77 square miles and there are over 1.5 million people living there. To buy a small apartment in Manhattan you need to shell out close to a million dollars. That's overcrowded and costly not Malta! What happened in Marsaxlokk is simply lawlessness by a bunch of neanderthals who feel they have the right to occupy public land without regard to others; aided and abetted by weak enforcement from MEPA and politicians who are unwilling to take a stand to uphold the law. No one is denying anyone the right to go spend the day at the beach but setting up camp on a public beach for the whole summer is simply not OK! When I was growing up we didn't have a "villegatura." We took the bus to the beach, spent the day there, and took the bus back home.
Mario Borg
Aug 16th 2012, 15:21
The problem with Malta is that everyone expects things for free, probably these people are richer than the people you are referring to as educated. Having everything for free is something ingrained in some populations and unfortunately Maltese are like that no matter if they are rich or poor. It is with working with foreigners and foreign employers that you start noticing this. These people probably make more money than the average graduate but they are not willing to pay for anything so even if you have proper campsites and charge pennies they still go for illegal camping.
John Azzopoardi
Aug 16th 2012, 12:13
Yes it was and the maltese courts should have handed harsh sentences on this kind of bullying to ensure that it does not occur again. But when you have oth polical parties resorting to all kind of bullying, what do you expect. Malta tends to be very criminal friendly whether we know it or not.
Alfred Grech
Aug 16th 2012, 12:13
Why did MEPA give them till the end of the month? There is no buildings to dismantle but just put the camping stuff in the truck, start the engine and drive off.
There is one word to describe MEPA's attitude: STUPID.
Joe Xuereb
Aug 16th 2012, 12:09
This photograph shows the full extent of this outrageous situation.
The tent-holder from Żabbar says the area is infested with rats implying that he is merely more of the same. Or that his presence rids the place of the vermin. Vermin! Don't even go there, man!
Christopher Haber, with hindsight, could have gone to the Authorities to sort out this mess. Maybe he did and got nowhere. Maybe he didn't because he lost faith in the Authorities. He has paid the price, he was assaulted. It is all very well for the Courts to say his injury was slight and that his 'forgiveness' lessened the crime. Really?! What about the trauma of having to live with the memory of having been humiliated in public? Forgiveness without the admission of guilt by the perpetrator of aggression is worthless in any case. This man forgave possibly out of fear and the 'System' is taking advantage of this, and of him.
Tony Camilleri
Aug 16th 2012, 12:01
Continuing disgusting comments from the violent perpetrators.
MEPA under the pair of strong hands which turned into jelly hands.
Pamela Hansen
Aug 16th 2012, 13:05
I called them jelly babies a long time ago
James Dewar
Aug 16th 2012, 11:55
Marsaxlokk is (or should that now be WAS?) a favourite destination during our trips to Malta but this incident and the ongoing presence of the unauthorised scruffy camp will make me think twice about spending time on the beach there. For locals and tourists alike the authorities musty act positively and urgently to have the site cleared.
K. Vella
Aug 16th 2012, 11:53
@ Pamela Hansen
Why do we try to turn everything into a political or religious issue in this country....a really micro mentality.
We have a legal system and let it take it course....
Victor Vella
Aug 16th 2012, 12:39
Nisperra issa Sur Vella jekk darb`ohra jinbidel il-gvern inti jibqa` jkollok a macro mentality.
K. Vella
Aug 16th 2012, 12:54
Sur Victor Vella, tidher li diga dawwarta f'wahda politika.....
Irridt nsemmi li naqbel ma kull punt li Ms. Hansen semmghiet....barra No.3
Pamela Hansen
Aug 16th 2012, 13:03
May I point out that quote 3."The Church and political parties have remained silent, even though they often reacted to such incidents, according to his family." was not mine but appeared in the article above. As indeed did all four points.
carmel cassar
Aug 16th 2012, 11:52
I find nothing wrong with these hooligans. This is Malta man. kollox jghodd. Il- huta ilha li nitnet minn rasa, issa li ha l-kumplament tal gisem se noqghodu niskantaw.Abbandun f'kollox. Dan hu il prodott finali. Ma tarawx lanqas biss xi hadd mar biex jghinu, jiffrontaw sidirhom biss ghar-ritratti, mbaghad nahirbu.
E. De Marco
Aug 16th 2012, 11:51
From the general comments by various bloggers it seems that in Malta certain people can get away scot free & act as they please. I quite agree with this opinion, but this not only applies to just taking over beaches. It's the same thing when it comes to traffic infringements. The people who own private cars are booked if they go down 'wrong way' as they are contravening the law. Not so in Triq San Gorg, San Paul's Bay.Coaches of a renowned company can go down this stretch of road 'wrong way', whenever they please & whenever they like, whatever. Both the local council & the police know about this....yet....you guessed right! No action has been taken because of some flimsy excuse that they have no choice. I believe theylike the short cut. Shame on the authorities who should stop this abuse immediately.
E. De Marco
Aug 16th 2012, 11:51
From the general comments by various bloggers it seems that in Malta certain people can get away scot free & act as they please. I quite agree with this opinion, but this not only applies to just taking over beaches. It's the same thing when it comes to traffic infringements. The people who own private cars are booked if they go down 'wrong way' as they are contravening the law. Not so in Triq San Gorg, San Paul's Bay.Coaches of a renowned company can go down this stretch of road 'wrong way', whenever they please & whenever they like, whatever. Both the local council & the police know about this....yet....you guessed right! No action has been taken because of some flimsy excuse that they have no choice. I believe theylike the short cut. Shame on the authorities who should stop this abuse immediately.
c scudi
Aug 16th 2012, 11:48
Just look at the picture of the beach,chocked with massive tents.what,s wrong with sun umbrellas for the day..why do these peoplethink that they can come here and occupy the land for weeks on end.If they want to camp,go and pay where there are proper camping sites...This is jsut an excuse for a cheap holiday...and please do not tell me that their affluent is disposed of hygeinly..yes..into the sea!!
Pamela Hansen
Aug 16th 2012, 11:45
1.He has no intention of provoking them into potential retaliation...
2.“This was unprovoked aggression – bullying. And no one stopped them to help me,”...
3.The Church and political parties have remained silent, even though they often reacted to such incidents, according to his family.
4.Meanwhile, families who set up camps at Marsaxlokk yesterday seemed undeterred by the planning authority’s enforcement notice telling them to leave the area.
These four points taken from the article say it all.
Christopher Zahra
Aug 16th 2012, 13:32
Pamela,
Please mention also that election is just round the corner and people have votes and not RATS !!! Church is trying to find ways to correct the mess they have created, leaving the people is stupidity for over 100 years, now they are in a mess; financially, credibility and morally.
Society need to address the issue of "kollox jghaddi" and professionalisim shall be deleted from our dictionaries.
Moreover, we are now shocking the society too much, for example within a year or two, we introduced Divorce and now IVF.
Joe Fenech
Aug 16th 2012, 14:21
What it doesn't say is that Malta has no proper camping facilities/countryside/enforcement of any sort.
Only a fascist state targets exclusively the small fish.
This corrupt, banana republic is driving itself into everlasting disaster. Spain and Greece will recover, Malta will never!
anton murcia
Aug 16th 2012, 11:35
"... the area was full of rats before it started being used by the campers..." . Well, considering that the campers in question are not afraid of rats and that in China these are bred in purposely maintained fields and eaten specially cooked as a delicacy in select Chinese restaurants as their meat is lean; wouldn't it be worthwhile if the campers, instead of idling away and lazying during the whole day, employ themselves in catching the rodents, organizing a freeze packing process and export them to the above Far-Eastern country ?!!
Mike Hunt
Aug 16th 2012, 11:31
Fantastic. So I can cause trouble, but the courts are powerless as long as I coerce people into not taking legal action, regardless of being caught on camera.
Ruth Muscat
Aug 16th 2012, 13:52
A pure example that the bad rule, the righteous suffer. WE HAVE TO STOP THIS not wait for judgement day!!!!
david debattista
Aug 16th 2012, 11:19
A 60 euro fine for what they did has made them a celebrity for others of their own kind !
It is also an insult to the police. Think how much it coasts the tax payer to get the police to intervene and to get such people to court . What a waste of time and money !
Peter Bonnici
Aug 16th 2012, 11:17
Minister Azzopardi is conveniently feeling justified NOT to intervene after the presiding Magistrate decreed that those trespassing on Public Land should be given two weeks to clear off il-Maghluq. The Law is quite clear on who occupies Public Land and Minister Azzopardi is duty bound to enforce it with the due urgency as public outcry is requesting, no matter what leniency attitude is exercised by the Courts of Law. The Public demands to be heard and protected as THE EXPECTED FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT
c scudi
Aug 16th 2012, 11:50
Maybe we can all go and occupy his garden or put up tents outside his house
E Schembri
Aug 16th 2012, 11:15
I don't blame the victim. In a country were criminals are glorified, laws are 50 years outdated and police presence is near to zero, even I wouldn't dare press charges, as 99.9% it will only result in further retaliation from the 5 hooligans with absolutely no protect from the authorities.
Unless you are a black belt or own a weapon, it is better to simply forget the trauma and move on with your life. In this country you either take the law in your hands and beat the criminal to death ensuring no further aggression or you go hide in a hole and pretend we live in a democratic country.
Ramon Casha
Aug 16th 2012, 11:10
PARLIAMENT must amend the absurd law that allows victims to "forgive" their aggressors. If a crime is committed, the police should be able to proceed against the aggressor with or without the victim's approval. The way things stand, it is an incentive for violent criminals to threaten the victims with further violence to make them "forgive" them.
A Fenech
Aug 16th 2012, 11:06
“If I see that clip on television I will get you and break your camera,” he warned aggressively. - Mela qedin il-Congo??!?!?!?!?
Victor Vella
Aug 16th 2012, 11:43
Ghar mill-Congo. Sar pajjiz diddardar tghix fih. Hlief kriminalita, korruzzjoni, inkompetenza, u vjolenza m`hawnx. Dan il-pajjiz dghajjef ma min huwa b`sahhtu, u b`sahhtu ma min hu dghajjef. X`ma tikbirx il-kriminalita. Gejna titwerwer timxi fit-triqat u sahansitra anke tibza` tghix go dahrek. Tghid issa johorgu jaghjtu tal-PN: Go dahrek bla biza. Almenu taht il-lejber go dahrek kien bil-biza, taht in-nazzjonalisti go dahrek u fit-triqat bil-biza. Tal-PN qerdu u ngannaw lill-kulhadd, barra dawk li qed ippapuwa sew taht regim ghar minn tal-Congo.
Peter Midler
Aug 16th 2012, 12:05
Mr Fenech, il-congo ghamlu progress aktar minna.
Robert Lewis
Aug 16th 2012, 11:03
Excuse me Mr Haber but I already stated that in one of my blogs that you were left on your own and no assistance whatsoever from the other protesters. As for the Courts I would like to inform the Court that with all those photos published on the media, there was no need for Mr Haber to be present in Court. And the most important thing the Court should have done was to issue a guarantee in favour of the victim, and then the fine.
Daniel Diacono
Aug 16th 2012, 10:59
mela skond il pulizija mhumix se jtellaw il dawk il-5 l-qorti talli aggredew bniedem ghax ma jridx jamel rapport.
mela bl-istess ragunament jekk persuna A toqtol lil persuna B, il-pulizija mandomx itellaw lil persuna A il-qorti akkuzat b`delitt ghaliex persuna B ma ghamlitx rapport kontrihom !!!
Caroline J. Muscat
Aug 16th 2012, 11:24
Don't be silly ... there are some offences which by law need a complaint from the victim for the police to initiate / continue proceedings. Jahasra ara kif inhuma l-affarijiet qabel ma tfajjar il-kummenti
Joseph Mamo
Aug 16th 2012, 10:53
These persons were very wrong to beat up this man but there were five of them as i'm sure that one on one the victim would have been able to defend himself. The campers I think have the right to set up camp where they did as after all no one took any concrete action against the Armier buildings. I think that all this talk of action is all for nothing as the govt. will not take any action with the general election so close and every vote counts. One person I respect very much once said that we are PAJJIZ TAL MICKEY MOUSE.
Joe Zabbar
E. De Marco
Aug 16th 2012, 11:36
You're quite right. Jew kulhadd jew hadd! There are a lot of 'unofficial' campsites, some of them 'boathouses' turned into summer residences. Qawra, near Golden Bay, Armier. Some of them even have water & electricity services given to them officially way back years ago....
Peter Midler
Aug 16th 2012, 11:59
Nabel mieghek sa certu punt, Sur Mamo. Pero il-partit fil-gvern ghandu ferm x'jitlef jekk ha jkaxkar saqajh aktar u ma jesigix li l-awtoritajiet jiccaqilqu mir-raqda profonda li qedin fija!! Il-partit fil-gvern ghandu x'jitlef ferm aktar mil-oppozizjoni li baqet gallarija!!
Ma hemmx skuza li il-gvern ma jistax jindahal lill-qorti! FEJN IRIDU ISIBUHOM IS-SOLUZJONIJIET!!
Hemm bzonn ukoll li jammenda il-ligi biex affarijiet bhal dawn ma jsirux aktar! Ghanna bzonnm mhux Franco Debono wiehed f'dan il-pajjiz!
I have seen international websites giving sensation to this whole incident making Malta looking like a third world country!! Shame for letting a few unruly irrisponsible people dictating to all other law abiding citizens including the goverment!! The smirk on their faces show the satisfaction they got. They came out of the court practically happier than they went in. Min jemmenhom dawn l-affarijiet?!! Tal-misthija.
Alison Bezzina
Aug 16th 2012, 10:42
If only this, if only that….all I see are legal loopholes favouring criminals and not protecting victims.
Deja Vu anyone ?
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20120816/blogs/d-j-vu.433080
Fran Abela
Aug 16th 2012, 10:38
I ask a simple question: if it is against the law to hitch up tents for more than one day on beaches - why did not the police intervene immediately ? Government should set up camping sites, where sanitary and water and electricity is available so people can camp there, at a cost I must add.
Kimberley Caruana
Aug 16th 2012, 11:30
There is already some campsites in Malta with costs, but for some reason, its better to go to a hotel because the fee is the same price. I had found a site if camp site in Malta that the fee goes up to 25 euros for the camp each day, 1euro for shower each person, 3 euros for electricity p/p p/d .. its better to stay in a hotel, with the a/c on, with some indoor pool, and with a glass of wine ;)
Anthony Scicluna
Aug 16th 2012, 10:14
@Joseph Vassallo (Bugibba)
That is exactly what struck me. While the courts of law rely on "intention" or "motivation" of a crime they rarely rely on "motivation" not to press charges. The photos are clear of criminal offence and complete disregard to constitutional rights of peaceful assembly (not to say complete contempt of court). I would argue (but I am no lawyer) that this is enough to show that there was an intent to crime whether or not the victim presses charges.
Paul Zammit
Aug 16th 2012, 10:12
and this is exactly what I have already said. WORD FOR WORD.
Next step is for the police to bring the assailants to court. There isn't even the need of the victim's testimony in this case because it is all very well documented on photograph!
Deo Catania
Aug 16th 2012, 10:07
Jason Azzopardi kultant johlom biex imur iwaqqa xi kamra fl-ghalqa bil-bulldozer, il-bqija ma nisimghux bih.
Mr Stephen Borg
Aug 16th 2012, 10:07
The man from Zabbar said that he pays taxes and has the right to use the beach. Yes he has the right to use the beach but not to occupy the beach with ugly and filty green tents which constitute an eyesore and an inconvenience for all other tax payers. Please think before you speak.
c scudi
Aug 16th 2012, 12:08
sure the man from zabbar can use the beach but he no right to erect Army tents and move his house there for the summer...
joanne pace
Aug 16th 2012, 09:56
Can anyone explain why some parts of a once free public beach like Exiles now has sun beds and umbrellas put on the beach as early as nine in the morning , and now one has to pay to swim. As far as I know there is no valid permit for this, can Mepa Sliema Local Council please check this out. Its the old Exiles Beach what was known as Civil Club.
Mr Nathan zammit
Aug 16th 2012, 10:15
we have the same here in Qawra, however you only have to pay if you use the sunbeds or umbrellas. the sea is open to everyone. after all the sea is of the public and nobody can stop you from using it unless the bay has become a private bay (I have no idea how that works but anyway). If you are not allowed to enter the bay I suggest that you contact the related authorities!
A Tonna
Aug 16th 2012, 11:02
In Qawra, the sunbeds are put on the beach only by request of the customer.
Peter Murray
Aug 16th 2012, 09:55
You dont have the right to use the beach for living purposes and just by the fact that you are living there automatically pollutes the area
Martyn Attard
Aug 16th 2012, 09:52
Mr Haber is right in feeling let down since no one seems to have come to his aid whilst he was being beaten up. Have we all become armchair critics ?
James Dewar
Aug 16th 2012, 11:37
And to add insult to injury he can not apparently be supported by the judicial system and has to watch as the pack of thugs roam free to intimidate and assault some other innocent individual. Hopefully the Police appeal will succeed and thereafter if a change in legislation is required to allow proceedings to take place "in the public interest" even when the victim is too scared to make a formal complaint then that change should be made rapidly.
Paul Azzopardi
Aug 16th 2012, 09:49
No one stood up for me when I was attacked.....Very much says it all.....Police are never there when you need them, same as politicians have never got your back when you the public need them, unless it going to suit their political carriers and votes. I think we should give the news photograph a thumbs up since he risked taking the photos and being on the spot..they could've easily attacked him ,infact I'm sure they are probably regretting they didn't.
Nothing shows me that I should have any confidence in our system...Mepa, Justice department ,police have all been made to look like fools infront of the people they swore to defend, they swore to uphold the law.
Now right infront of our faces they retreat...from a bunch of goons....
This just is not right.
What's worse is nothing is going to be done about it.
By NO ONE....
Hon Mario Demarco, Mr Hon.Gonzi where are you when we need you, Isn't this STILL your government term ?????????????
Joseph Vassallo, (Bugibba)
Aug 16th 2012, 09:45
Quote from the report: "He has no intention of provoking them into potential retaliation." Unquote.
Is dropping charges because of intimidation valid at law?
Mr Nathan zammit
Aug 16th 2012, 10:17
This guy should be given legal protection as he is clearly afraid that these people are going to attack him or his family again!
Philip Mizzi
Aug 16th 2012, 10:22
A very good point Mr Vassallo!
The police prosecution should explore this avenue to see if justice can be served better. After all, crime has been committed, 'forgiven' or not by the victim. Besides, this whole incident and how it has been handled by EVERYONE concerned is pityful and whats worse, it gave a very bad message to all criminal minds!! So please try and get it right in an appeal!
From the point of view of a victim, I doubt which is worse: Having the remorse to let such uncivilised persons get away with it; OR Stand up for your right and dignity and risk retaliation.
The later option is undoubtly more honourable. Besides, the authorities are fully aware of the incident and any retaliation could also cause trouble for aggressors.
Playing the whole incident down by a victim and forgiving his aggressors can make it more difficult to claim and win compensation should a victim sue for damages!
Forgive the aggressors after justice has been done!
James Dewar
Aug 16th 2012, 11:45
Joseph, I would think that if he has evidence to prove that he was threatened or intimidated regarding making a formal complaint the thugs could be charged. However it would appear unlikely that the victim will proceed along these lines. Catch 22! However if proof were needed that the reason for him not making a complaint was fear of retribution his statement says it all. It seems absurd that with the undisputed video evidence the Police are unable to bring proper charges that would result in more realistic sentencing. I have previously asked if Maltese law allows for "the public interest" to be taken into account when an individual fails (for whatever reason) to make a complaint but I am still unclear as to whether or not that is the case. (Joe Brincat LLD where are you !?)
N Azzopardi
Aug 16th 2012, 09:43
Rightly so Mr. Martin Tonna. The beach is for the public. So it means take off your tent and make space for the public.
R. Borg
Aug 16th 2012, 09:42
If a crime was committed in public, does it need the victim's pemission for the police to take full action? The victim needs protection, even the general public should be protected from these called human beings.
James Dewar
Aug 16th 2012, 11:47
Absolutely. I am sure that there were a number of people who were alarmed by the conduct of these morons. The public interest is not being served in this case.
Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti
Aug 16th 2012, 09:42
"He has no intention of provoking them into potential retaliation." Malta's law of the jungle. No one takes responsibility.
Francesca Abela
Aug 16th 2012, 09:41
The magistrate has made a big foul by giving them 2 weeks to leave, he should have given them 24 hours or face a daily fine of 100 euros! This is caravans and tents we are talking about, not a 2 storey building to demolish, it wont take them more then a couple of hours to pack up and go. For the record the caravans are STILL THERE! The area is littered with rubbish, bbq ashes and rubbish is dumped in what was once a beach room and is now about 5 filati high, the beach has been turned into a tip. GET THEM OFF. The police should go at sunset and order them off as according to law - no tents etc may remain on a public beach after sundown.
James Dewar
Aug 16th 2012, 11:50
Francesca, Even 24 hours is too long given their conduct. The site should have been cleared immediately. They presumably gave no notice of their intention to occupy the site so why should they be given the luxury of a period of notice to leave.
Victor Rodenas
Aug 16th 2012, 09:38
I hope I`m wrong,.....but nothing will be done this Summer,....time will tell.
X Borg
Aug 16th 2012, 11:53
And I's sure nothing will be done next summer.
Please choose the reason of your report below: