Civil Governor Isilda Gomes has emphasised the importance of joint police operations in the Algarve in the continued fight against crime in the region.
An operation, coordinated by the centre for police and customs, involving various factions of the police and security forces in the Spanish border region of Castro Marim on June 24 saw security forces deploying 80 staff, 15 cars and two boats resulting in the surveillance of more than 200 cars, 40 heavy goods vehicles, 17 boats and over 700 people, both Portuguese and international.
Speaking after the operation, Isilda Gomes said: “The cooperation between the various forces in our region has allowed us to strengthen and continuously improve security measures in the Algarve with very positive results in operational terms and also great effect in combating and deterring crime.”
The Civil Governor also stressed the importance of close collaboration between the authorities in the Algarve and also in Andalucia, particularly in relation to illegal immigration and human trafficking.
During the Castro Marim operation, two people were readmitted to Spain after failing to produce sufficient documentation while illegal produce, including fresh fish, vegetables and fruit were also seized.
Isilda Gomes added: “In addition to the high visibility of these operations, they also contribute greatly to the Algarve and to all those who visit by creating a feeling of safety, where people can feel that they can rely on the security forces and that security is a top priority in the region.”
Meanwhile, eighty PSP Special Police Unit officers have started patrolling bathing areas in the Algarve.
As part of the operation Verão Seguro (Safe Summer), 15 extra officers have been seconded to the PSP police office in Lagos.
Vítor Rodrigues, commander of the PSP police in Faro, said: “This operation will be permanent in the Algarve and until September it will be reinforced in the busier areas with increased influx of tourists.”
The main target areas are Lagos, Praia da Rocha (Portimão), Faro, Olhão, Tavira and Vila Real Santo António.
Do you have a view on this story? Please email Editor Inês Lopes at ines.lopes@theresidentgroup.com
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