GNR identifies seven suspects of drug trafficking at Boca do Rio beach, Algarve
Seven men were identified at Boca do Rio beach in Vila do Bispo following an alert from residents about suspicious vessels. The case was handed over to the Judicial Police.
Seven suspects identified on Algarve coast following residents' alert
The GNR identified seven suspects of drug trafficking at Boca do Rio beach, in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, district of Faro, according to noticiasaominuto.com.
The alert came in at 06h40, when residents contacted the Guard to report "vessels with anomalous movement" near that beach, indicating that an immigrant landing was expected to take place there.
Elements from the GNR's territorial detachment and resources from the Coastal Control Unit (UCC) were sent to the location. Upon arrival, the authorities concluded that "it was most likely the occurrence of the crime of drug trafficking rather than an immigrant landing", according to Major Hélder Lima, from the UCC's public relations.
On the basis of evidence found at the location and the behaviour of the suspects, the GNR identified seven individuals, all male, aged between 21 and 44 years old. Five are Portuguese nationals and two are foreign nationals.
"No seizures were made and these individuals were merely identified, and not detained or made suspects", Major Hélder Lima emphasised.
Despite no detentions or seizures occurring, the incident was reported to the Public Prosecutor's Office, which determined that the Judicial Police should be notified to assume the investigation. The UCC officer clarified that international drug trafficking offences may be involved, a matter within the exclusive competence of the PJ.
Source: Google News PT — Crime (pt)