Twenty-nine new police inspectors were sworn in at a ceremony yesterday, the police said.

Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela and Police Commissioner Michael Cassar attended the ceremony at police headquarters.

Mr Abela underlined the importance of a disciplined police force enjoying the best people.

He noted that this particular group of newly appointed inspectors was one of the best police recruitment in terms of academic abilities which varies from diplomas, bachelor degrees, and masters degrees. These diverse disciplines include qualifications in psychology, criminology, science, computing, management, marketing and Doctorate of Laws.

"This achievement shows that the Police Force is succeeding in attracting high quality individuals whilst motivating its members to continue enhancing their academic skills."

He stressed the need for continuous training and said education should be a priority for all members of the police force.

In the months the focus would be on a reorganization of the structure of the Police Force which will include the appointment of a chief executive officer, reporting directly to the Police Commissioner.

In his regard, Police Commissioner Michael Cassar explained the opportunities that these inspectors will be provided with, to merge their academic aspect with practical field work.

Mr Abela and Mr Cassar encouraged these newly appointed inspectors to be dedicated towards the intensive training provided by the Criminology Department at the University of Malta for the coming year. This course consists in criminology, investigation, policing and the law.