During the Christmas and New Year festival season, the PSP and GNR intensified inspections throughout the country, with a special focus on the Algarve, where fatal accidents and several road traffic offenses occurred. The operations, which will continue until the beginning of January, include measures to reinforce patrolling, raise awareness among traders and inspection on roads with the highest traffic flow.
Operations in the Algarve with fatal accidents and serious infractions
The GNR operation “Christmas and New Year 2024/2025” recorded, until December 25th, two fatal accidents in the Algarve, on Estrada Nacional 125 in Albufeira and Boliqueime. These accidents resulted in fatalities, among a total of 11 deaths recorded nationally, resulting from 2,160 accidents. In addition to the deaths, there were 57 serious injuries and 634 minor injuries across the state.
The GNR reinforced inspection in the Algarve, with a special focus on the main traffic routes, such as the EN125, intensifying control of drivers under the influence of alcohol, speeding and infractions such as improper use of cell phones. So far, 693 drivers have been caught driving under the influence of alcohol, of which 345 had levels above 1.2 g/l, resulting in their arrest.
More than 13,500 road traffic offenses were recorded across the country, including 3,536 for speeding, 354 for incorrect use of seat belts and child restraint systems and 293 for improper use of a cell phone while driving.
PSP action with significant arrests and seizures
The Public Security Police (PSP), in the “Parties in Security” operation, also worked in the Algarve with inspection and road safety actions. Across the country, the PSP arrested 242 people for road crimes, including 155 for driving under the influence of alcohol and 87 for not having a driving license.
During the inspections, illegal items were also seized, such as 22 firearms, 37 bladed weapons and more than 47 thousand pyrotechnic items. Additionally, more than 66,000 individual doses of narcotics were seized, demonstrating concern about drug trafficking during this festive season.
In the area of awareness raising, the PSP developed actions with traders within the scope of the “Montra Segura” initiative, including activities in the Algarve, which saw the participation of thousands of traders made aware of security measures during the busiest season in local commerce.
Recommendations for the New Year
With the increase in travel expected for the New Year, security forces are calling for strict compliance with traffic rules and respect for safety standards. Proper use of seat belts, moderation in speed and abstaining from the use of alcohol before driving are some of the main recommendations.
and will continue to develop inspection and prevention actions in Sertão and throughout the country until January 2nd, to ensure everyone’s safety during the end of year celebrations.
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