Post by : Badri Ariffin

Two police officers from Lisbon, both in their twenties, have been officially charged with the torture of homeless individuals and migrants, as confirmed by Portuguese authorities on Friday.

The duo, arrested in July and still in custody, faces severe allegations including torture, abuse of power, and acts of cruelty. Additionally, one officer is charged with rape, robbery, and forgery.

Per the indictment by Lisbon Prosecutor Felismina Franco, one incident involved a Moroccan migrant who was subjected to brutal beating for hours in a police station. The victim was forced to kiss the officers' boots, as one of them taunted, “Welcome to Portugal!” in English.

“These victims were systematically selected from vulnerable populations like the homeless and financially disadvantaged,” stated the prosecutor. “Such conduct exemplifies severe and unjust violence against those who cannot resist.”

The Ministry of the Interior condemned these actions, expressing deep regret over actions that infringe on citizens' rights, emphasizing that these do not represent the behavior of most officers.

Furthermore, the General Inspectorate has initiated a separate investigation to look into other potential infractions by police personnel.

Amnesty International Portugal, which documented additional allegations of torture, criticized the circulation of images and messages online, labeling it a display of “significant impunity.” The organization welcomed the internal reports of these crimes and advocated for enhanced oversight, including extra cameras in police facilities, patrol cars, and bodycams for officers during public interactions.

#Global News