Portugal's Procurador-Geral da República (PGR), Amadeu Guerra, has dismissed claims of a strained relationship between the Public Prosecution Service and the Police Judiciary (PJ) following recent searches conducted at the institution. Speaking to journalists in Bragança, Guerra emphasized that collaboration between the two entities remains strong. He highlighted that the PGR and PJ have always worked well together, with PJ personnel being very available for cooperation.

The searches, which took place on Wednesday, were part of an investigation involving the current director of PJ, Carlos Cabreiro. According to reports, Cabreiro is suspected of making false statements in court and abusing his power in relation to alleged wiretaps in the "Football Leaks" case, which included the 'hacker' Rui Pinto. Guerra assured that the investigation is ongoing and that his institution will continue to work with the PJ.

Guerra stressed that the value of the PJ as an institution must be respected. He described the situation as normal in a democratic society and urged against criticizing the actions of the Police Judiciary. The PGR expressed his respect for the institution and its role in the country's justice system. He also lamented the leakage of information regarding the searches to the media.

When questioned about the outcome of the searches, Guerra declined to provide details, citing the secrecy of the judicial process. He explained that the investigation is following standard procedures, which include making denunciations, opening inquests, conducting inquiries, and gathering evidence. Guerra emphasized that the PGR's role is to analyze the evidence and make accusations or dismiss the case accordingly.

According to the complaint filed with the Public Prosecution Service, the investigation centers around recordings authorized by Carlos Cabreiro of a 2015 meeting between Aníbal Pinto and other individuals involved in the case. These recordings allegedly led to the identification of Rui Pinto. Guerra confirmed that the PJ has cooperated with the investigation.

The searches took place at a time when Carlos Cabreiro was serving as the coordinator of the Section for Investigation of Computer Crime within the Lisbon and Vale do Tejo Directorate of the PJ. He has been the director of the PJ since April 2026. Guerra's comments aim to reassure the public that the relationship between the PGR and PJ remains unaffected.

The PGR concluded by highlighting the importance of respecting institutions and their roles within the democratic framework. He expressed confidence in the continued collaboration between the Public Prosecution Service and the Police Judiciary, emphasizing their shared goal of upholding justice.

Key points

  • The PGR denies any tensions with the Police Judiciary following searches related to an investigation into the PJ's director, Carlos Cabreiro.
  • The investigation involves allegations of false statements in court and abuse of power related to the "Football Leaks" case.
  • The PGR emphasizes continued collaboration with the PJ and respect for the institution amid the ongoing investigation.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.