The Lisbon Metropolitan Command of the Public Security Police (PSP) arrested a 41-year-old man on Friday afternoon in the parish of Alcântara, suspected of committing four counts of aggravated theft using a false key.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the security force explained that it had launched criminal investigation actions following “reports of lack of security” in local accommodations, primarily targeting tourists. These cases involved crimes against property, specifically thefts.
The investigation “identified one of the perpetrators of the crime, who cunningly broke into local accommodations at night, with the aggravating factor that the victims were asleep during the commission of the crime.”
The suspect took “the most valuable belongings, which were easiest to sell, in order to quickly gain economic profit for the subsequent satisfaction of addiction to psychotropic substances.”
The man, “with a criminal history of similar offenses,” was intercepted and detained by the PSP yesterday afternoon in a location known for drug consumption in the parish of Alcântara.
The detainee was presented to the competent judicial authority yesterday for a preliminary judicial interrogation, where he was remanded in custody as a preventive measure.
Summer Safe Program – Direct Key
It should be noted that, during the holiday season, security forces are implementing the Summer Safe Program – Direct Key, which aims to prevent and enhance the security of residences, especially when people are away for extended periods.
Families can inform their absence at the local police station or through the website https://veraoseguro.mai.gov.pt/Pages/Home.aspx, which allows homes to receive special attention from the police.
In addition to the residential surveillance program, from 2018 to 2024, the PSP conducted more than 1,800 awareness-raising actions involving almost 40,000 citizens, addressing topics such as “Thefts and Robberies” and “Home Security.”
The PSP is participating in the 7th edition of the European Focus Day on Domestic Burglaries, an initiative organized by the European Crime Prevention Network, which includes the participation of Europol, the European Commission, and 23 EU countries.
The campaign intends to make citizens aware and provide self-protection advice against home burglaries.
The PSP emphasizes the importance of informing officers about prolonged absences and ensuring that doors and windows are securely locked.
Having presence lights outside the home that are sensitive to movement and always reporting to the PSP any thefts or burglaries, even if they are mere attempts, are some of the recommendations.
Neighborhood solidarity networks remain one of the most effective means of preventing this type of crime, as does asking acquaintances to collect mail so that the mailbox does not become full.
Data released this month reveal that the PSP recorded over 38,000 home thefts in Portugal over the past five years, during which 696 people were detained.
The PSP recorded over 38,000 home thefts in Portugal over the past five years, during which 696 people were detained, according to data released today, which also reveal about 300 annual cases involving violence.
Lusa | 12:17 – 18/06/2025
