Security Alarm in Porto: President Duarte Slams the Government

The recent events in the heart of Porto have once again brought security discussions in the city to a head. Unfortunate events, especially in touristic areas, mobilized both tradesmen and local governments.

Following the violence in the city centre, in which six tourists and a police officer were injured, Porto Mayor Pedro Duarte spoke very clearly. Describing the events of last Friday night as "unacceptable", Duarte made clear that he would continue to put pressure until he received additional police reinforcements from the government.

What Does the New Plan to Start in September Bring?

The new operational security plan prepared jointly by the municipality and police departments comes into effect at the beginning of September. President Duarte emphasized that the process will not be limited only to the steps of the central government, and that they, as the local government, will provide additional resources to the police.

Field Technologies: Security forces will be allocated CCTV cameras, drones and special street patrol vehicles.

Academic Support: A joint study is being carried out with the University of Porto's School of Criminology to combat street-level drug dealing and related violence.

Personnel Reinforcement: The government had previously promised that 80 municipal police officers and 200 private security guards would be on the field by the end of the year. Duarte says these numbers are critical to changing the situation on the ground.

"The State Failed the Exam"

Duarte, who did not hide that insecurity has become Porto's current biggest problem, underlined the residents' right to live in peace. He pointed out that tourism and daily life in the city center should not be negatively affected by this situation, and that organized groups would not be tolerated to disrupt public order.

“There can be no areas in Porto, especially in the city centre, that people avoid for safety reasons.”

Friday Night's Balance Sheet Was Heavy

What happened last Friday night in Rua Cândido dos Reis was the final straw. A group of people attacked at least six tourists in the evening, causing minor injuries in the area where there is a busy nightlife.

While the personal repercussions of the incident had not yet subsided, a more serious incident took place on the same street at around 4 in the morning. A police officer who was targeted with a broken glass bottle was seriously injured and taken to Santo António Hospital. While the police are investigating the incidents from multiple perspectives, the Union of Police Professionals (ASPP) argues that there are structural deficiencies at the root of the problem and that the security forces must be supported urgently in terms of staff and personnel rights.

Source: Diário de Notícias / SIC Notícias (Written by Inês Lopes)

Photo Credits: Estela Silva / Lusa, Pascal Bernardon / Unsplash