The Portuguese Interior Inspectorate (IGAI) has launched an investigation into the alleged forced entry into the home of Odair Moniz’s family, following his death in the Cova da Moura area of Amadora. Moniz, a native of Cape Verde, was fatally shot by a police officer on October 21 while driving.
The IGAI’s aim is to ascertain the facts related to this specific criminal investigation and review all incidents involving the conduct of police officers from the Public Security Police (PSP) during the incident, including official police reporting procedures.
Attempts to reach IGAI for further information were unsuccessful.
The circumstances surrounding Moniz’s death, at the age of 43, remain unclear, with ongoing investigations by both the PSP and IGAI still to yield results.
The incident sparked unrest and protests in several neighborhoods around Lisbon.
In late January, the Public Prosecution Service charged the PSP officer involved with homicide, a crime that carries an eight to sixteen-year prison sentence. The charge refutes initial police reports alleging Moniz brandished a knife, claiming he was resisting arrest without threatening officers with any weapon.
SOS Racismo and Vida Justa criticized the police account, demanding a thorough investigation to determine accountability, suggesting a persistent “culture of impunity” within the police forces.
The prosecution has called for the suspension of the 27-year-old officer and suggested an additional sentencing measure to prohibit him from resuming duty. The officer is currently on leave with no set return date.
With the defense opting not to request a pre-trial hearing, the case is set to be tried in the Sintra Court.
In parallel with the criminal proceedings, disciplinary actions are also underway within the PSP and IGAI, as directed with urgency by the Minister of Internal Administration, Margarida Blasco.
