Portugal pushes unified crime prevention across major cities to boost security
Portugal’s Interior Minister Luís Neves has proposed a unified approach to crime prevention across major cities. Speaking alongside Lisbon’s mayor Carlos Moedas, he called for better coordination between police forces. The plan aims to improve security by breaking down barriers between municipalities. Neves highlighted the need for integrated systems in crime prevention and resource sharing. Currently, each municipality runs its own command centre, leading to fragmented operations. He warned that this separation wastes resources and disrupts continuity in policing.
The minister suggested expanding the model beyond Lisbon to Porto and the Algarve in the coming months. He argued that urban areas extend beyond administrative borders, covering regions like Vila Franca de Xira, Cascais, and the southern bank of the Tagus. Moedas praised the existing partnership between Lisbon’s Municipal Police and the Public Security Police (PSP). Their 'hand-in-hand' collaboration now operates in 16 neighbourhoods, focusing on community policing. Despite this, Moedas confirmed that the PSP remains the lead authority for criminal investigations. To boost security, Moedas outlined plans for more police patrols, expanded video surveillance, and better working conditions for officers. Neves also challenged the public’s 'perception of insecurity,' noting that crime rates in Lisbon are lower than in previous years.
The proposed changes would create a more connected crime-fighting system across Portugal’s major cities. If implemented, the plan could lead to shared resources, smoother operations, and improved security measures. Both officials stressed that closer cooperation between police forces remains a priority.
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