“Unfortunately, we have indications that Portugal is also a destination for human trafficking for labor exploitation, sexual exploitation, and, sadly, in some cases for the, and I apologize for the strong expression, import of children for adoption,” stated the deputy national director of the PSP and head of UNEF.
In an interview, João Ribeiro explained that the responsibility for dealing with human trafficking crimes lies with the Polícia Judiciária, but the Public Security Police (PSP) “plays a crucial role in prevention” by detecting incidents occurring at airport borders and nationwide.
“These incidents primarily occur in major urban centers, metropolitan areas, and also along the coast. In this regard, I must say there is an excellent relationship with the National Republican Guard and the Polícia Judiciária, in identifying such situations,” he highlighted.
The official pointed out that the PSP currently identifies more human trafficking cases than in the past.
“Investigative authority is not ours but belongs to the Polícia Judiciária, yet we are identifying significant numbers, which doesn’t necessarily mean that all these cases will ultimately be defined as human trafficking crimes under legal terms,” he stated.
Concerning the “importation of children for adoption,” João Ribeiro mentioned that the PSP is detecting cases at national airports where “apparently family or non-family members” arrive in the country with children, raising suspicions.
“This is one of the aspects where we have strengthened airport capabilities to flag such cases,” he added.
