Operation Martim Moniz (2010) was a police operation conducted on December 10, 2010, in Mouraria and Martim Moniz, Lisbon, Portugal, with the objective to address illegal immigration, enforce tax and safety regulations, and combat the sale of counterfeit goods in local commercial establishments.
Background.
The Mouraria Shopping Center, in particular, has faced several police inspections over the years, as described by Paulo Afonso, a Portuguese vendor who has operated in the area for 21 years. Despite routine patrols, local merchants often witnessed illegal activities, forcing a law enforcement operation to address the issues.
Operation.
On December 10, 2010, a joint operation was carried out by the PSP, SEF, the Inspecção Tributária and the ASAE. Starting at 15:00 and lasting three hours, the operation targeted the Mouraria and Martim Moniz shopping centers, as well as nearby public spaces, including the Mouraria Esplanade and establishments in Martim Moniz Square.
During the operation, 1535 individuals were identified, including shopkeepers and shoppers, and no one was allowed to leave without proper identification. The police deployed sniffer dogs to search for narcotics but reported no findings. ASAE seized counterfeit goods, including handbags, watches, and clothing, valued at nearly €6,000. Two establishments were closed for violations, and four administrative offenses were documented for issues such as the absence of complaint books and inadequate safety measures. SEF detained five individuals for being in the country illegally, while the Tax Inspection issued four infractions for diverse irregularities.
Aftermath.
Although the operation disrupted business activities, with shopkeepers and visitors stranded during the inspections, law enforcement described the operation as a success. PSP spokesperson Sub-commissioner Carla Duarte confirmed the peaceful conduct of the operation.
References.
 ;templatestyles src="Reflist/styles.css" / ;