During the ceremony of the Territorial Command Day of Vila Real’s GNR, held today in Valpaços, Colonel Feliciano Amaral highlighted the mission of the GNR in rural fire areas, noting that this command leads the country in detaining arson suspects, with 10 arrests.
He also mentioned that in the Transmontano district, the burnt area has reached 15,000 hectares this year.
Feliciano Amaral discussed the GNR’s Floresta Segura operation aimed at mitigating fires, mentioning that 800 awareness actions were conducted in this region, reaching around 10,000 people.
Within this command, approximately 4,700 mobile patrols have also been conducted.
The commander also highlighted a concern of the Guard related to supporting the elderly, noting that about 5,000 are living alone and/or isolated in this district. He announced that the eGuard program for teleassistance to isolated elderly people will proceed in four municipalities.
The military ceremony was attended by the Minister of Internal Administration, Maria Lúcia Amaral, who took the opportunity to honor this security force for the “fundamental role” it plays in this region, notably in fire prevention and combat.
In this district, which was also severely affected by fires this summer, the minister wanted to emphasize the role played by the military in defending communities and forest heritage.
“On behalf of the Government and all Portuguese people, I extend a word of deep recognition. Your courage, discipline, and sense of mission dignify the Guard and ennoble public service,” she stressed.
