Lagoa’s new municipal police force will begin operational duties on Monday, March 2, marking what the municipality describes as a “new chapter” in prevention, monitoring and community policing.
Set up as an administrative police service with its own authority powers, working alongside national security forces, the municipal police will focus on enforcing local laws and regulations. The aim is to provide a visible presence on the streets and deal directly with everyday issues affecting residents and visitors.
In its initial phase, the force will consist of five officers plus a commander. Numbers are expected to rise to eight during the busy summer season, when the town sees a sharp increase in population and activity. The municipality’s long-term goal is to build the unit up to 24 officers, creating what it calls a “permanent and effective” community policing model.
While operating within its legal remit, the municipal police will concentrate on several key areas. Responsibilities include monitoring waste disposal and urban cleaning, tackling illegal dumping and promoting good environmental practices; regulating traffic and parking to improve road safety and traffic flow; overseeing the occupation of public space to ensure rules are followed; monitoring the coastline in coordination with the relevant authorities; and supporting and supervising municipal events to ensure safety and compliance.
The new force will also carry out awareness campaigns with residents, schools and local businesses, focusing on “prevention and education through dialogue and proximity”.
The municipality says the new service is “built on a clear philosophy: staying close to citizens, listening, mediating and acting proportionately, while respecting the law and fundamental rights.”
It adds that the launch of the new local police force “reinforces its commitment to quality of life, safety and good coexistence in the municipality, placing the new service at the disposal of residents and visitors alike.”
