Prison Escape Averted: 30 Guards Mobilized in Coimbra After Threat Detected

Alert Prevents Prison Break in Coimbra

The National Prison Guard Union revealed that 30 guards and an intervention team were called to the Coimbra prison following a warning about a possible escape by six inmates connected to Brazil's First Command of the Capital (PCC).

According to Frederico Morais, president of the union, the prison's security system detected the threat, prompting immediate action. Guards were mobilized, some even interrupted their time off, and an intervention team was put on standby. Fortunately, the situation did not escalate into an actual escape attempt.

During the search of the inmates' cells, guards discovered drugs and mobile phones, successfully preventing the planned escape.

Prison Services Response

The General Directorate of Reintegration and Prison Services (DGRSP) confirmed that no escape attempt occurred but noted that a situation indicating potential preparatory acts for an escape was detected. They emphasized the importance of their ongoing security vigilance.

Frederico Morais expressed concerns about prison security, stating that without the timely information, a catastrophe could have occurred due to the violent history of these inmates.

He urged for the installation of mobile signal jammers in prisons, as previously promised by Justice Minister Rita Júdice.

Call for Action

Morais also called for the swift transfer of these six inmates to Monsanto prison in Lisbon, the only high-security facility in Portugal equipped with a signal jammer, to enhance security measures. He highlighted the urgent need for action, given the increasing presence of PCC members in Portuguese prisons and the violent crimes they have committed in Brazil.