A military officer from the Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) was killed and three others injured during a patrol operation on the Guadiana River on Monday night after their vessel was rammed by a fast boat, presumably linked to drug trafficking.
In a statement sent to newsrooms, the GNR confirmed the incident occurred around 11:15 PM on Monday, October 27, when military personnel from the Coastal Control Detachment of Olhão, Coastal and Border Control Unit were deployed following a high-speed boat alert on the Guadiana River. During the operation, the GNR vessel was struck by the fast boat, resulting in the death of one officer and slight injuries to three others.
The suspect vessel was later found burning, and investigations are underway on the Guadiana River and its banks to determine the cause of the fire and gather material evidence, as well as to locate the suspects who have been at large since the accident.
These investigations are being conducted with the support of the Maritime Police, the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority, and Spain’s Guardia Civil.
The Polícia Judiciária (PJ) has also been contacted and mobilized, and are conducting investigations related to the case within their jurisdiction.
Psychological support from the GNR was immediately provided to the involved officers and their families.
In the statement, the GNR expressed deep sorrow over the incident, offering sincere condolences to the family and colleagues of the deceased officer, acknowledging their dedication and sense of mission displayed in service.
