GNR seizes alcohol, tobacco and gambling machines nationwide
In a nationwide operation dubbed Operation “Mariposa” (Operação Mariposa), the GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) reported seizures including 70 litres of alcoholic beverages, 7,800 cigarettes, 3.2 kg of nicotine pouches, 202 g of cannabis and five gaming machines. Authorities said the operation targeted illicit supply chains and illegal gaming points across multiple districts. Local businesses and consumers should expect continued inspections in the coming weeks as investigations proceed.
The GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) is Portugal's national gendarmerie—a military police force founded in 1911, with origins dating to 1801. With over 22,600 personnel, GNR patrols 94-96% of Portuguese territory, covering rural areas, medium towns, and highways. Members are military personnel subject to military law, responsible for public order, customs, coastal control, environmental protection (SEPNA), firefighting/rescue (GIPS), border control, and ceremonial guards. GNR vs. PSP: The PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública) is Portugal's civilian police force, covering major cities (Lisbon, Porto, Faro) and large urban areas—only 4% of territory but roughly half the population. PSP handles airport security, diplomatic protection, and private security regulation. Both share core missions (public order, crime prevention), but differ in nature: GNR is military with military training; PSP is civilian with police-focused training.
