Ten superintendents were this afternoon promoted to assistant commissioners, the third highest rank in the police force.

Among them is Alexandra Mamo, who made history by becoming the force's first woman to be promoted to such a rank.

Addressing the new ACs, Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar said this marked the first time so many superintendents had been promoted together, adding that this was part of a holistic approach to further strengthen the force.

In the past year, he went on, there were several opportunities for others to advance their careers and a number of new recruits were brought in, making it possible for the police to be more present in the community.

Thanking the newly-appointed ACs for their commitment, Mr Cutajar said that so far this year had been a hectic one as officers of all ranks were kept busy with the Presidency of the European Council as well as the election campaign.

On Ms Mamo's historic achievement, the Commissioner congratulated her on the achievement, adding that she should serve to encourage other women to follow in her footsteps.

Home Affairs Minister Michael Farrugia also congratulated the officers and said that as the newly-appointed minister he looked forward to working closely with them to pass on what the people wanted and needed.

“I will be looking from the outside inwards and I will serve as the people's voice when working with the police,” Mr Farrugia said.