The Madeira Regional Command of the Public Security Police (PSP) has released the full address by its regional commander, Superintendent Ricardo Abreu Matos, delivered during the Command's 148th Anniversary ceremony.
Matos noted the remarkable stability of crime in the Autonomous Region of Madeira over the past 10 years, with approximately 6,500 criminal occurrences annually and 200 involving Violent and Serious Crime, representing less than 2% of national criminal activity. A decrease of 3.7% in violent crimes was recorded last year and 37% in the first half of this year, though the annual balance is pending.
Domestic violence received particular attention, with a specialized team investigating the crime since 2022, leading to an increase in arrests and closer collaboration with the judiciary. However, road accidents have worsened, with 8 fatalities by June 30th this year, despite the establishment of a Road Safety and Prevention Section. The PSP awaits the installation of speed cameras and the provision of equipment for better enforcement.
Combating drugs, especially new synthetic substances, is another priority, with 19 suspects arrested for trafficking and around 170 intercepted for possession in the first half of the year. The commander warned of the devastating effects of these drugs and the severe penalties and license point deductions for traffic offenders.
