Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of 439 new Public Security Police (PSP) officers in Torres Novas, Luís Montenegro highlighted the importance of security services in upholding the rule of law. “Without a strong, active, and well-prepared police force, we cannot ensure security, and without security, there is no freedom,” he stated.

Montenegro called for a strategic reassessment of the police’s mission to address new forms of crime and emerging security challenges. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to increasing recruitment into the PSP and fostering closer ties between officers and the communities they serve.

“Portugal remains one of the safest countries in the world, but that status is not guaranteed. We must be ready to confront new threats,” he warned.

The Prime Minister also referenced several recent reforms introduced by his Government, including an increase to risk allowances, career progression reviews, and improvements to working conditions, particularly regarding facilities and equipment.

“Our officers are not only concerned about their pay. They want and deserve proper conditions to carry out their duties,” he said.

Montenegro further proposed tougher penalties for those who assault police officers, describing such actions as “unacceptable” and a fundamental challenge to police authority.

“This strengthening of criminal penalties is crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of policing,” he added.