Summary:
Suspect arrested in the burglary of the MAI in Lisbon
Crime occurred around 5 AM on August 28, with police notified later
Investigation suggests the suspect acted alone
Burglary facilitated by scaffolding from a neighboring building
Eight computers were stolen, some unused
Suspect Detained for Ministry Heist
A suspect has been arrested in connection with the burglary of the General Secretariat of the Ministry of Internal Administration (MAI) in Lisbon, which occurred early on Wednesday, August 28. The individual, reportedly 39 years old, was apprehended on Monday.
According to reports, the crime took place at approximately 5 AM. However, police were only alerted at 9:52 AM when staff arrived to find offices in disarray, with signs of forced entry.
Investigation Details
Investigators believe the suspect acted alone. He is now set to face a judge as part of an inquiry conducted by the Lisbon Criminal Investigation and Action Department. The Public Security Police (PSP) deployed multiple teams to gather information and analyze evidence leading to the suspect's identification.
Circumstances of the Heist
Margarida Blasco, the Minister of Internal Administration, stated that the intrusion was facilitated by scaling a neighboring building under renovation. The time of the crime, along with the scaffolding, allowed the suspect to access the premises unnoticed. Alarm systems were absent, and the surveillance cameras were non-operational, as reported.
During the burglary, eight computers were stolen, some of which had not yet been used. One belonged to the head of IT, while another was assigned to the deputy secretary-general Teresa Costa. As of now, the stolen equipment has not been recovered.
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