In a statement, the GNR says that “Operation Carnival” will focus on festival locations, commercial establishments that sell pyrotechnic items and road access routes to the main areas where festivities take place.

The objective of this operation is, according to the GNR, “to prevent the sale and use of pyrotechnic material, combat crime, contribute to the reduction of traffic accidents, regulate road traffic flow and support all citizens, promoting a safe festive environment and reinforcing the feeling of security”.

In the note, the GNR warns against the “use of pyrotechnic articles, commonly known as “Carnival bombs” (carnival firecrackers, throwing bombs, firecrackers and crackers), highlighting that these products are not toys, but explosives that can cause serious accidents, especially in children and young people”.

The GNR will direct prevention and patrol actions towards drug trafficking, possession of pyrotechnic material, theft and robbery, disturbances of public order, acts of vandalism and road inspection.

The GNR will prioritise controlling driving under the influence of alcohol and psychotropic substances, speeding, using a cell phone while driving, driving without a license and dangerous maneuvers, especially overtaking, changing direction and giving way.

Vehicle overcrowding and the use of seat belts and child seats will also be monitored.

The PSP also begins today and until March 5th the operation “Polícia Sempre Presente – Carnaval em Segurança 2025”, aiming to increase its presence on public roads, reinforce visibility and prevent the occurrence of crimes, through community policing.

In a statement, the PSP says that the operation is based on six pillars: visibility and police proactivity, road safety, proximity, inspection of establishments, safety in the possession and use of pyrotechnic articles and safety of shows with large crowds, social or community relevance.

The PSP also says that it will monitor the main Carnival parades in the cities of Ponta Delgada, Angra do Heroísmo, Funchal, Ovar, Bragança, Torres Vedras, Caldas da Rainha, Peniche, Marinha Grande, Braga, Figueira da Foz, Tomar, Guarda, Abrantes, Barreiro, among others.

“There will also be an increase in police visibility at nightlife establishments, which will be subject to inspection actions, with the aim of ensuring compliance with licensing and investigating situations involving the sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors,” according to the PSP.

The PSP will also carry out road inspection operations with a special focus on speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and/or psychotropic substances and using a mobile phone while driving.