Police Seize 166kg Of Cocaine And Over 2,088 Ecstasy Pills In First 6 Months Of 2026

The Malta Police Force seized 166 kilograms of cocaine, 2,088 ecstasy (XTC) tablets and 19 kilograms of khat during the first six months of 2026, according to figures announced by the government.

Speaking during a workshop organised by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Home Affairs and Security Minister Glenn Bedingfield highlighted the significant drug seizures made so far this year.

The 2,088 ecstasy tablets confiscated have already surpassed the total number seized throughout all of 2025, while the 19 kilograms of khat intercepted this year already match last year’s total.

Bedingfield praised the Malta Police Force, particularly the Drug Squad, for what he described as its professionalism and determination in dismantling organised criminal networks and preventing illegal drugs from reaching Malta’s streets.

“These results are clear evidence of the Police Force’s proactive work and of our determination to combat organised crime while protecting the health and safety of our communities,” the minister said.

He warned that the Mediterranean’s strategic location makes it attractive not only for trade but also for international drug trafficking, stressing the importance of stronger cooperation between countries through intelligence sharing, joint investigations and coordinated enforcement.

However, the minister said tackling drug crime requires more than policing alone, arguing that prevention, education, treatment and rehabilitation must remain central to Malta’s national strategy, particularly when it comes to protecting young people from drug abuse.

He concluded by reaffirming Malta’s commitment to working with the UNODC, European institutions and neighbouring countries to strengthen efforts against international drug trafficking and organised crime across the Mediterranean.

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Gabriel Falzon

Gabriel Falzon is a social media executive at Lovin Malta, with a keen interest in digital media, local businesses, and the natural world. Outside of work, you’ll often find him baking up a storm, diving into video games, or exploring the endless corners of YouTube.