Lisbon, Portugal - A sharp increase in crime within Lisbon's historic Baixa Pombalina district has ignited calls for enhanced security measures, with a focus on expanding CCTV surveillance.
The Association for the Promotion of Lisbon's Downtown (ADBP) recently submitted a petition signed by over 100 residents, businesses, and tourists. The petition urges authorities to address concerns about rising theft and insecurity.
The Baixa Pombalina, a vibrant hub named after the Marquis of Pombal who oversaw its reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake, has witnessed a recent uptick in "insecurity," according to petitioners. They attribute this to a rise in "constant robberies and thefts" and strongly advocate for the "installation of surveillance cameras monitored by the police, as well as the intensification of regular patrols by the authorities."
Vasco de Mello, ADBP vice-president, presented the petition's demands to the Lisbon City Council's 8th Standing Committee on Mobility, Transport, and Security. While the petition currently focuses on the Portas de Santo Antão area, Mello emphasized the need to extend coverage to Largo de São Domingos and Largo do Regedor, popular tourist spots that have also been affected.
CCTV surveillance in Lisbon has been a subject of debate for two decades, often hindered by data protection concerns. However, proponents argue that cameras would not only deter crime but also assist police in identifying offenders. Mello contended that police patrols alone may be insufficient to curb crime, given current resource limitations.
Miguel Coelho, head of the Santa Maria Maior Council, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the shortage of police personnel and highlighting the potential of CCTV in bolstering public safety. He emphasized that this initiative is not solely for tourists but also aims to ensure the safety of residents.
In response, the Lisbon City Council expressed its willingness to expand video surveillance based on police assessments. The city currently operates 34 surveillance cameras, primarily in Bairro Alto and at the Miradouro de Santa Catarina. By August 2025, the council plans to install an additional 99 cameras in key areas such as Cais do Sodré, Campo das Cebolas, Restauradores, and Ribeira das Naus.
The long-term plan includes a second phase, adding 117 cameras across 11 locations, including Praça do Comércio, Rua Augusta, and Santa Apolónia. By the end of the current mandate, Lisbon aims to have 249 surveillance cameras citywide, exceeding the initial target of 242.
Several towns in the Algarve region, including Faro and Portimão, have already implemented CCTV systems to deter crime and assist in identifying perpetrators.
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