A 23-year-old man was arrested on Monday in Lisbon on suspicion of sexually abusing a 13-year-old girl, who is reportedly a family member, according to a statement issued by the Polícia Judiciária (PJ) on Tuesday.
Investigators revealed that the alleged abuse had been occurring for approximately a year, beginning in May 2024, when the suspect moved to Portugal and started living in the same household as the minor.
The PJ further detailed that the suspect allegedly used “communication technologies” to lure the victim for sexual purposes.
The case came to light after the family took the girl to a hospital, suspecting that something was amiss due to “obvious health changes” she was exhibiting.
Medical professionals confirmed suspicions of sexual abuse, leading to the involvement of the PJ.
Following several investigative actions, the suspect was apprehended and is set to appear for an initial judicial hearing today.
