Captured: The Notorious Fugitive Fernando Ribeiro Recaptured After Months on the Run

Second Fugitive from Vale de Judeus Recaptured

Fernando Ribeiro Ferreira, a 61-year-old inmate, has become the second of five prisoners who escaped from the Vale de Judeus prison on September 7 to be recaptured. His arrest took place in Trás-os-Montes, following an extensive investigation by the Polícia Judiciária (PJ). The PJ reported that Ribeiro was the only remaining Portuguese fugitive after Fábio Loureiro was captured in Morocco last month.

The authorities stated, “The evaded inmate from Vale de Judeus, Fernando Ribeiro Ferreira, was apprehended after persistent, complex, and uninterrupted investigative work since the day of the escape.” The operation involved collaboration with the GNR (National Republican Guard).

Criminal Background

Ribeiro has a long criminal history, having committed violent crimes and being part of organized crime. His record includes association with criminal organizations, homicide, kidnapping, armed robbery, drug trafficking, and possession of illegal firearms. The PJ noted that Ribeiro has been imprisoned since 1980 and was serving a 24-year sentence at the time of his escape, with 11 prior convictions to his name. He was also subject to an international arrest warrant issued by the relevant judicial authority, featuring on Interpol's red notice list.

Ongoing manhunt for other fugitives

Three other fugitives remain at large, all of foreign nationality: Rodolf Lohrmann, known as “El Ruso,” Mark Roscaleer, and Shergili Farjiani. Their criminal activities include violent crimes and robbery, making them dangerous individuals still on the run.

Who is Fernando Ferreira?

Hailing from Lousã, Ferreira was serving time for a range of serious crimes, including drug trafficking and robbery. He led a violent gang known as the Mosqueteiros. In 2010, he was involved in the kidnapping of a businessman, holding him captive for four days and demanding a ransom of 20 million euros. The victim was eventually rescued during a bank visit.

Justice Minister Praises Police Efforts

The Minister of Justice expressed pride in the police's successful capture of Ribeiro, emphasizing the importance of their persistent and competent investigative work, especially the collaboration between the PJ and GNR. She stated, “This success leaves us with a feeling of pride and confidence in our police forces.”

First Fugitive Recaptured

A month after the escape, Fábio Loureiro was the first of the five prisoners to be recaptured, apprehended in Tangier, Morocco. The PJ had been actively working with international authorities to secure his capture since September 7.