The Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) reported 10,251 crimes related to domestic violence this year, up to November 15, resulting in 13 deaths—11 women and two men, according to a statement from the police force.
The GNR, initiating awareness campaigns throughout the upcoming week in conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, detained 1,380 suspects between January 1 and November 15; 349 were caught in the act and 1,031 after the fact. Additionally, 864 weapons were seized.
The districts of Porto, Aveiro, and Lisbon recorded the highest number of complaints, whereas Portalegre and Bragança reported the fewest incidences.
In 2024, the GNR accounted for 11,876 domestic violence crimes, with Porto, Aveiro, Braga, Setúbal, and Lisbon again having the highest rates, while Portalegre and Bragança remained at the low end. That year also saw 13 fatalities—12 women and one man—prompting increased awareness measures aimed at preventing violent behavior towards women nationwide. Authorities detained 1,450 suspects, with 373 caught in the act and 1,077 afterwards, and recovered 1,222 weapons.
The United Nations officially designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in 1999 to raise awareness about a situation that still impacts millions of women worldwide.
“The GNR has been intensifying awareness campaigns and investing in specific training for its personnel to ensure a more qualified response in handling domestic violence cases,” the organization stated in the release.
The GNR’s priorities also include improving victim reception areas and enhancing cooperation with partner organizations.
Currently, the Specific Victims Support and Investigation Units (NIAVE) encompass 186 specialized personnel nationwide, with 4,056 inquiries logged by November 15, 2025, 3,956 of which have been concluded (approximately 97.5%).
“Domestic violence is a public crime that requires mandatory reporting and is a shared responsibility. Its prevention, investigation, and combat are current criminal policy priorities and a paramount concern for the Guarda Nacional Republicana, which remains fully committed to victim protection and promoting a safer society,” emphasized the GNR.
The police service stresses that anyone needing help or aware of a domestic violence situation should report it through the Electronic Report Portal, by telephone via the European emergency number (112), at the nearest GNR post, or through these contacts.
Reports can also be submitted via the App MAI112, intended solely for deaf citizens, or through the SMS Segurança application, aimed at deaf individuals.
