The National Audit Office (NAO) has just published a follow-up report covering audit activities on Government entities, including the Malta Police Force. The purpose of this exercise (as far as the Police force is concerned) was to monitor and report on internal controls exercised by the force, in relation to expenditure on overtime and allowances.

The original audit was carried out by the NAO in 2020. At that time, the Office had highlighted areas requiring improvement. The Malta Police force notes with satisfaction that in the follow-up report published in recent days, the NAO covered all eight areas of deficiencies originally identified in the 2020 exercise together with the respective recommendations and confirms that the Corps implemented 100% of the NAO recommendations.

The report, among others, praises the introduction of the Staffing & Major events Unit. This unit today administers one digital and centralised system on everything related to the deployment and working hours of members of the force, including overtime. The NAO also comments positively on the work carried out by the Corps Internal Audit Office, through which recommendations related to digitalisation within the Human resources Department (HR) of the Corps were strengthened.

In connection with digitalisation, it should be mentioned that the Police force has also successfully set up the Digital Policing Unit. This unit is tasked with implementing Strategic result 2 from the transformation Strategy (2020-2025) – putting data and technology at the centre of all operations of the Corps, the ultimate goal being to reduce errors and increase efficiency through digital processes.

In its conclusions, the NAO noted positively the efforts of the Malta Police force in the implementation of all recommendations. Confirming that the digital transformation carried out by the body in recent years has significantly improved accuracy and transparency as regards the recording of working hours and the processing of wages. This initiative has also simplified human resources processes, improved data management and strengthened efficiency in general.

This shows the commitment of the Police force in recent years to strengthen efficiency and effectiveness in its operations while prioritising the principles of good governance which elements have strengthened the legitimacy of the Police, as confirmed by various public opinion polls, both local and international.

The Police force remains committed to “providing a professional and trusted service to ensure a safe country in partnership with the Community.”

Report Link: https://nao.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Follow-up-2024.pdf