Police Uniform Rumor in Lisbon’s Rossio Firecracker Incident Denied by PSP
Portugal’s Public Security Police (PSP) confirmed that the man suspected of throwing a firecracker in Rossio was not a police officer and had committed no illegal act.
📌 Key Highlights & Context
- The suspect was identified as a civilian who fled the scene and took shelter in a nearby McDonald’s
- PSP categorically denied any link between the suspect and the police force
- The incident highlights rising social tensions in Lisbon and prompts a review of security protocols
What Happened
During a protest in Lisbon’s central Rossio Square, a firecracker was set off. Police identified a 41‑year‑old man as the person who allegedly ignited it. He fled the crowd and hid inside a McDonald’s restaurant nearby.
Police Uniform Allegations and PSP Statement
Demonstrators claimed the suspect was wearing a police uniform, allowing him to move freely among protesters. PSP responded that "the suspect is not a police officer and did not engage in any illicit activity," dismissing the rumor outright.
- The lack of a uniform made identification challenging.
- PSP emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing.
- Authorities plan to revise crowd‑control protocols to prevent similar confusion.