Authorities arrested five people and seized about 1.5 tonnes of cocaine in an operation dubbed “Teia Branca”, carried out by the Judicial Police and Spanish counterparts, RTP and Expresso report. Expresso and other outlets say the detainees are Venezuelan and Spanish nationals and a PJ official in Portimão said there is no indication the shipment was intended for distribution inside Portugal; investigations continue. Residents near ports and coastal areas should follow official notices as police enquiries proceed.
Five arrested in 'Teia Branca' drug sweep
Saturday, 21 February 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
The PJ (Polícia Judiciária) is Portugal's national criminal investigation police agency, founded in 1945. Operating under the Ministry of Justice and supervised by the Public Ministry (prosecutors), the PJ is a "higher criminal police body" specializing in serious and complex crimes. Mission: The PJ assists judicial and prosecuting authorities by investigating terrorism, organized crime, homicide, kidnapping, drug trafficking, corruption, cybercrime, financial crime, and money laundering. It conducts forensic examinations, operates Portugal's Interpol and Europol liaison offices, and maintains specialized units including the National Counterterrorism Unit and National Anti-Corruption Unit. Difference from PSP/GNR: While PSP (civilian urban police) and GNR (military rural police) focus on preventive policing, public order, and investigating minor crimes, the PJ exclusively handles serious crime investigation requiring specialized technical and scientific expertise. PSP and GNR report to the Ministry of Internal Affairs; PJ reports to the Ministry of Justice. PJ officers receive higher pay and prestige but face greater operational risk.
Teia Branca is the name used in Portuguese media for an alleged drug‑trafficking network that was the target of a recent police operation which led to five arrests. Those living near the areas mentioned in the reports should follow local news and police updates, as investigations can involve searches, temporary disruptions and court proceedings.