The national operation “Comércio Seguro 2025” saw the GNR’s military presence in the center of Vila Pouca de Aguiar, in the district of Vila Real.
“The key idea is prevention,” stated Captain Rui Novais, commander of the Vila Real Territorial Detachment.
The campaign started on November 24 and continues until December 31.
“The Guarda has increased patrols and awareness actions to instill self-protection policies not only for merchants but also for all clients who use commercial spaces at this time,” the officer explained.
The aim is to prevent crimes such as theft, robbery, fraud, and cyber fraud during this period of traditionally heightened commercial activity and increased online shopping.
In Vila Pouca de Aguiar, Chief Jorge Sousa and principal guards Artur Nunes and David Vilela engaged with people on the streets and visited various commercial establishments, reiterating multiple safety tips.
In discussions with merchants, Jorge Sousa advised having minimal cash on hand and ensuring that doors and windows are securely locked when closing the premises.
“These are practical and basic tips, but they make all the difference,” he emphasized.
Those approached received notepads containing local GNR contacts and advice, such as staying calm during a robbery and noting the assailants’ characteristics—clothing, physical traits, and escape direction.
This information can aid the Guarda in identifying criminals.
Customers were advised to keep their belongings secure in busy areas, check them regularly, and be particularly cautious with online purchases, especially those at unrealistically low prices.
“This initiative is always good because seeing the authorities on the street is always a deterrent to possible thefts, and it gives the impression that things are safe. It’s just a pity it doesn’t happen more often, but this area isn’t very problematic,” said Rui Ribeiro, 62, who owns Loja dos Rapazes, selling clothes, footwear, and Santa Casa games.
Many of these recommendations are already daily concerns for this merchant, who stressed the importance of reinforcing these alerts.
“It’s always good to be sure that we’re safe. In our workplace, we see a lot of things, attend to many people, and it’s always good to have a contact, a phone number and feel secure knowing that help is nearby if needed,” noted Débora Castelo, 24, a technician at the “Figueiredo” pharmacy.
The intimacy offered by the smaller town is described as “a comfort.”
“We don’t have many complaints here, but some incidents have occurred, some thefts, and it’s always good for people to be informed,” emphasized Mateus Igreja from the clothing store Storm, highlighting that the GNR’s advice is beneficial for daily application, especially during this busy season.
The 45-year-old merchant indicated that he feels “secure” and that these initiatives are beneficial “these days,” necessitating “a certain level of caution.”
Captain Rui Novais concluded that through these actions, the GNR has promoted “the adoption of behaviors that prevent placing merchants and customers at risk” while “simultaneously enhancing the sense of security.”
The campaign involves military personnel from territorial posts and sections of criminal prevention and community policing.
