The Malta police force : duties assigned to the force during the second world war

Abstract

This dissertation aims to explore the duties which were assigned to the Malta Police Force during the Second World War. Research was carried out by conducting a comparative study with the Police in the UK, to identify any similar duties which evolved from the War. Furthermore, a more detail research was accomplished in order to identify, elaborate and discuss further duties which fell under the responsibility of the Malta Police Force. Research was not only carried out from the archives (from epochal documents such as; Police Circulars, Government Gazettes, articles from newspapers, etc.), but interviews were conducted as well, mainly, with five ex-Police Officers which served the Force during the War. And with the combination of such research methods, the researcher had the opportunity to travel back in time and have a clear overview of the Force as regards to the miserable conditions and the hard work which where provoked by the War. Little literature is existent as regards to history involving the Malta Police Force, mainly as regards to the epic time of the Second World War. This dissertation shall help to serve and fulfil such void. The author feels confident and optimistic in identifying and giving evidence to most of the multi difficult tasks carried out by the Malta Police Force during the harsh days of War, hoping the reader will assimilate and feel a sense of pride and joy, towards the Malta Police Force, especially if the said reader is a member or ex-member of the Malta Police Force.