The Judicial Police (Polícia Judiciária or PJ) detained a 40-year-old man at Lisbon airport suspected of belonging to an international drug trafficking network that operated mainly via the port of Leixões, RTP reports. Authorities say the detention is part of an ongoing investigation into cross-border trafficking; further inquiries and possible charges could follow. Travellers and residents near ports should expect continued police activity and follow official guidance.
PJ detains suspect linked to international trafficking
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.