Lisbon's PSD Proposes Expanded Powers for Municipal Police to Tackle Urban Insecurity

The PSD Lisbon has proposed an expansion of the Municipal Police's powers to enhance public safety in the capital. This recommendation was approved in the Municipal Assembly, despite opposition from parties such as the BE, PCP, PEV, and Livre. According to Luís Newton, the leader of the PSD bench, the aim is not to grant criminal police powers to municipal officers, but rather to allow them to play a significant role in everyday security by providing a dissuasive presence that could alleviate the perceived sense of insecurity in the city.

Creation of a City Security Observatory

In addition, the Municipal Assembly has recommended the establishment of a City Security Observatory, urging the government to review the legislation concerning the powers of the Municipal Police. This initiative, titled "Reinforcing Security in Lisbon – Confidence, Effectiveness, and Proximity", emerged during a debate on urban security, prompted by the PSD group, which highlighted the public's feelings of insecurity and the existence of "black figures" (unreported crimes).

Luís Newton emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address current challenges and prepare for the future. The "black figures" significantly hinder the effectiveness of the PSP (Public Security Police) in organizing their security operations.

The recommendation to create the "Lisbon Security Observatory" aims to monitor crime in the city and publish periodic reports to enhance transparency and rebuild public trust. This proposal saw support from the CDS-PP, MPT, and Aliança, while facing opposition from Livre, PEV, PCP, and some independents.

Additionally, the PSD Lisbon also proposed increased training in cybersecurity, conflict resolution, and crisis management, which has been approved and will be forwarded to the Lisbon City Council.