Ombudsman will report on action against demonstrators in Lisbon

A Ombudsman will draw up a report with conclusions and recommendations on police action in Lisbon in the housing demonstration, after monitoring by the National Prevention Mechanism (NPM).

In response to questions put by Lusa, the Ombudsman clarified that the last stage of monitoring is not yet completed and provides for the systematisation of the information collected, the identification of risks and possible mistreatment and the preparation of a report with conclusions and recommendations.

The procedure will also include monitoring of measures that will be taken following the Ombudsman’s recommendations.

According to the Ombudsman, the presence of the NPM on the spot on Saturday night was determined by the Ombudsman within the framework of her powers to prevent maltreatment and excessive or disproportionate use of the police force.

The body clarified that the mandate of the NPM is not limited to traditional detention spaces and may include police interventions on the public road, including detentions, immobilizations or collective restraints.

The Ombudsman stressed that this preventive action does not depend on the submission of any request and pointed out that the elements of the NPM remained on site until after 5 a.m., “no personal incident was recorded”.

The main objectives of monitoring are to identify and prevent risks of excessive use of force and other mistreatment, to monitor arrests and the use of coercive means, as well as to assess the transport and residence of detainees in police facilities.

It also intends to make recommendations aimed at strengthening the guarantees of persons detained and improving police procedures.

The Ombudsman explained that monitoring takes place in several stages, from the preparation and observation of police interventions to the documentary analysis and evaluation of procedures.

It also clarified that “the NPM acts according to principles of independence, non-interference, confidentiality and consideration in the analysis of facts”.

The last step, which remains ongoing, will enable the Ombudsman to assess the information collected and to make any recommendations to the competent authorities.