In a statement to the media, the management of the Humanitarian Association and the command of the Fire Brigade of Fundão explained that upon learning of the incidents, they “immediately ordered the opening of the respective disciplinary proceedings to internally investigate the occurrence and ensure strict compliance with institutional duties and responsibilities.”
Eleven volunteer firefighters from Fundão, in the district of Castelo Branco, were detained today by the Judiciary Police (PJ) on suspicion of two crimes of rape and one of sexual coercion, with the alleged victim being another firefighter during a hazing ritual.
The Judiciary Police revealed that, through the Criminal Investigation Department of Guarda and in coordination with the Central Directorate of the PJ, they detained 11 volunteer firefighters from the Humanitarian Association of Volunteer Firefighters of Fundão, outside of flagrante delicto, on strong suspicion of having committed, on two separate occasions within the barracks of Fundão and Soalheira, two crimes of rape and one of sexual coercion.
According to the statement, in response to the formal communication from the PJ, it was conveyed to the management and command of the firefighters to prevent any disruption to the course of the investigation, “collaboration in the sense of momentarily suspending procedures planned for a potential disciplinary process.”
“In strict compliance with this guidance, internal procedures were temporarily suspended, which is why preventive measures, including possible suspensions, have not yet been applied,” the statement reads.
They further noted that after the procedures carried out by the PJ today, “the reasons for suspension have ceased, allowing disciplinary and labor processes to resume their normal course.”
The management and command of the Fundão firefighters also stressed that from the outset, they provided full support to the firefighter who filed the complaint, listened to those involved, and collaborated with the competent authorities.
“While the negative impact arising from the public disclosure of these events was predictable, the defense and protection of the firefighter who reported the situation always prevailed.”
Based on the statements made by Commander José Sousa, they emphasize that from the complaint and testimonies gathered so far, “it became clear to the command that the level of involvement and knowledge of the various elements is not uniform.”
They also add that, given what is already known, it is expected that after the conclusion of the internal investigation “there will be grounds to apply severe disciplinary measures, including, if necessary, expulsion from the fire brigade.”
The management and command appeal to the public to maintain confidence in the Humanitarian Association.
