Portugal is currently grappling with the fallout from the police shooting of Odair Moniz, a 43-year-old chef from Cape Verde. The incident has ignited widespread protests and a criminal complaint against far-right leader André Ventura, who made controversial remarks supporting the police’s actions.
The tragic death of Odair Moniz has sent shockwaves through Portugal. Initially reported as a police encounter where Moniz allegedly brandished a knife, subsequent investigations revealed that no weapon was involved. The officer involved has since been charged with manslaughter, raising questions about police conduct and accountability.
The incident has sparked unrest in several municipalities around Lisbon, leading to the torching of vehicles and multiple arrests. As tensions escalated, the public’s demand for justice grew louder.
In the wake of the shooting, André Ventura quickly took to social media to express his support for the police. He stated that the officer involved should be “decorated, not indicted,” a comment that has drawn sharp criticism from various sectors of society. Another Chega lawmaker suggested that if security forces were more aggressive, the country would experience greater order.
These statements have been perceived as inflammatory, particularly given the sensitive nature of the incident. Critics argue that Ventura’s comments incite violence and undermine public trust in law enforcement.