PSP arrests four men in operation against violent gang in Caldas da Rainha
The PSP dismantled a violent crime group in Caldas da Rainha, arresting four men and seizing firearms, drugs and more than 26,000 euros.
Police operation dismantles armed group in Caldas da Rainha
Four men were arrested on Tuesday in Caldas da Rainha following a PSP operation that ended a group dedicated to violent crime, reports Correio da Manhã. Following the arrests, a firearm, drugs and 26,805 euros in cash were seized.
The suspects, aged between 28 and 43, were arrested by the Criminal Investigation Squad of the Caldas da Rainha Police Division, in the Leiria district. The operation resulted from an investigation lasting approximately nine months, which allowed evidence to be gathered on an activity described by the PSP as "violent and serious, involving the use of firearms".
Searches reveal weapons, cocaine and hashish
During the execution of three search warrants, both residential and non-residential, officers seized a firearm of 6.35 millimetre calibre, a firearm replica, 593 doses of hashish and 182 doses of cocaine. Computer equipment and 26,805 euros in cash were also collected.
The group had already been flagged by authorities "for the practice of illicit activities of a similar nature". The arrests were made under four warrants for arrest outside of flagrante delicto.
PSP emphasises objective of halting criminal activity
In a statement, the PSP stated that the operation "had as its main objective to halt the criminal activity carried out by the suspects, namely that associated with violent crime phenomena and the use of firearms". The operation involved collaboration with members of the Special Police Unit.
The four detainees were brought before the competent judicial authority and subject to initial judicial interrogation. The preventive measures applied include a ban on contacting victims, a prohibition on the acquisition and use of firearms, and fortnightly presentations before the police authority of their respective areas of residence.
The investigation continues under the direction of the Department of Investigation and Criminal Action (DIAP) of Caldas da Rainha.
Source: Correio da Manhã