A police chief serving in the Lisbon Municipal Police is among six members of the so-called Movimento Armilar Lusitano (MAL) detained today by the Judiciary Police on suspicions of terrorist activities.
The Judiciary Police report detaining the six members of MAL on charges related to terrorist groups and activities, discrimination and incitement to hatred and violence, and possession of prohibited weapons.
In a statement, the Judiciary Police announced the launch of an operation to execute 15 search and seizure warrants (both residential and non-residential), culminating in the arrest of six individuals in the act.
Under the operation “Disarm 3D,” various types of explosive materials, firearms—some of which were produced via 3D printing—several 3D printers, dozens of ammunition rounds, bladed weapons, and computer equipment were seized, among other evidence.
“The investigation stemmed from the online detection of indicators of extremist manifestations by advocates of nationalist and radical far-right ideologies, followers of an anti-system and conspiratorial ideology that encouraged discrimination, hatred, and violence against immigrants and refugees,” stated the Judiciary Police.
According to the Judiciary Police, the Movimento Armilar Lusitano aimed to establish itself as a political movement supported by an armed militia.
The six detainees are scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday for their initial judicial interrogation and the imposition of coercive measures.
