Porto, May 3, 2026 (Lusa) – The Minister of Internal Affairs said on Sunday in Porto that the GNR (National Republican Guard) is prepared to respond to highly demanding operational contexts through its specialised units, while praising its "unique" presence across the country.
"The GNR is prepared to respond to contexts of high operational demand. Through its specialised units, it asserts a robust intervention capacity, with high levels of preparation and professionalism," said Luís Neves.
The minister, noting his familiarity with these structures from his professional past, said that this capability ensures "the maintenance of public order, criminal investigation, response to critical incidents, and action in highly complex scenarios."
During his speech at the GNR's 115th anniversary celebrations, he said that marking this milestone means "recognising a force that accompanies the country's contemporary history and has known how to evolve, adapting to the demands of each era without ever losing its identity."
He described the GNR's presence in Portugal as "unique and continuous", calling it "close, often discreet, but always decisive". He said that across much of the country, especially in the interior, the GNR serves as the first and sometimes only visible face of the state.
"This presence guarantees security and trust. It is a trust built on regular contact, knowledge of our communities, and the ability to anticipate problems," Neves said.
He praised the "deeply human dimension" of the GNR's community work, citing the support for isolated elderly citizens, attention to vulnerable situations, and the identification of social risks. This knowledge of the territory and the people, he concluded, allows for a more effective and personal approach.
He expressed gratitude and happiness regarding the president of Portugal's presence at the GNR's 115th-anniversary ceremonies.
"The presence (...) confers a particularly relevant institutional significance to this celebration. It is the recognition of an institution that has served Portugal with dedication, discipline, and a sense of mission," he said, adding that everyone felt "very happy" with António José Seguro's attendance.
The president praised the GNR's efforts in fulfilling its mission as it celebrates 115 years of existence. He condemned assaults on GNR officers, describing them as signs of erosion in a democratic society.
He addressed the officers, valuing their role in ensuring national security, specifically during the fires in August last year. He reminded the audience that attacks on these officers signal a decline in democratic values.
GNR General Commander Rui Veloso said that Portugal's recognised security is not "immutable", saying that combating criminal networks, new forms of violence, and disinformation requires "strategic vision", "intelligence", and "determination".
CCM/RYOL // ADB.
Lusa
