A study of cult crime in Malta

Abstract

This dissertation intends to provide insight on the situation of cult crime in Malta. Considering that this topic has never been explored the research should act as an introductory step, determining whether further research on this area is required or not. The research does not focus solely on cult crime, but through the same research question it aspires to investigate what cults are found in the Maltese Islands and if said cults are a threat to society. The research uses qualitative data techniques, in order to obtain the results for the research questions. Two data sources are used: in-depth interviews with experts who deal with cult members; and content analysis on a series of newspaper articles which feature information related to cults or which are reporting a crime carried out by a cult. Results give evidence that cults are prevalent in Malta, yet it appears that the most destructive cult found in Malta is that of Satanism. Members of this cult are usually adolescents, who passing through the transitional period between childhood and adulthood, find refuge in carrying out crimes and joining in a group which goes against society's norm. Within this research, the common denominators of members, listed as drugs, alcohol and sex, are also discussed. Such a research is important because it is indicative of what happens in Malta. Moreover, it illustrates that an information centre about cults found in Malta is needed as this would allow collection and sharing of information, not only in Malta but amongst other European Member States.