During a statement, Jorge Nunes (PS) expressed concerns over recent incidents including increased thefts at commercial establishments, alcohol and drug consumption in public spaces, and disturbances due to gatherings.
The president of the União de Freguesias of Pontinha and Famões, in the Odivelas municipality of the Lisbon district, attributed the rise in crime to the need for more resources, specifically vehicles and personnel, for the Loures police division, which is responsible for Odivelas.
“The underlying issue here is the lack of resources, especially vehicles, for this division, which covers Loures, Odivelas, and extends to Vila Franca de Xira and Torres Vedras, making it quite large,” he pointed out.
The local official noted that he had requested a meeting with the Minister of Internal Administration “more than once” to advocate for additional resources for the PSP.
“We do not understand how a division of this size is so lacking in resources, particularly vehicles, as officers often have to rely on public transportation, especially those involved in community projects,” he criticized.
The president also issued a public statement on social media raising awareness about the issue.
“We do not understand nor accept that the Pontinha and Famões parish is handled in this manner by the Ministry of Internal Administration, the Loures Police Division, and the Lisbon Metropolitan Command, being left to fend for itself,” the statement read.
The Ministry of Internal Administration was contacted for comment but did not respond.
