Vandalized Mosta Trees in Malta Likely to Survive, Investigations Ongoing

The Mosta trees in Malta that were recently vandalized by having holes drilled into their trunks and an unknown liquid poured around them have a good chance of surviving the attack, according to Moviment Graffitti. The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) and the Mosta local council have filed police reports following the incident and investigations are underway.

ERA is actively looking into the matter, which includes reviewing CCTV footage from the area and testing samples of the liquid that was poured into the drilled holes in the trees. After the liquid and its residue were cleaned out from the holes, the trees have been able to resume being watered normally.

Moviment Graffitti, an NGO that has been closely following the case, reports that they have been informed the trees are still alive at this point. "Moviment Graffitti has been updated on the investigation and is committed to continue following the issue closely," the organization stated. They also noted that new branches are attempting to sprout from the vandalized trees, which is an encouraging sign that indicates a good probability of the trees surviving this ordeal.

Why this matters: The vandalism of these mature trees in a public square raises concerns about the safety and preservation of Malta's urban greenery. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how such acts of environmental damage are handled by authorities and the level of protection afforded to trees in community spaces.

The 12 mature ficus trees involved in this incident had previously been saved from being uprooted and transplanted during renovations to Mosta Square, thanks to activism and campaigning by environmental advocates. Moviment Graffitti has encouraged anyone with information related to the vandalism to contact ERA as the investigations by the environmental agency and the police continue. The NGO remains dedicated to monitoring the situation and supporting efforts to ensure the trees survive this attack.

Key Takeaways

• Mosta trees in Malta vandalized by drilling holes and pouring unknown liquid.
• ERA and Mosta council filed police reports, investigating CCTV footage and liquid samples.
• Trees have a good chance of surviving, with new branches attempting to sprout.
• Vandalism raises concerns about safety and preservation of Malta's urban greenery.
• Moviment Graffitti continues to monitor the situation and support the trees' survival.