GIRA bike-sharing network in Lisbon hit by wave of vandalism

Lisbon's GIRA bike-sharing network is facing a severe wave of vandalism and theft that has caused significant service disruptions and financial losses. According to the municipal company EMEL and the Lisbon City Council, the current cycle of criminal activity, which intensified in late 2025, has resulted in more than 700 acts of vandalism this year.

These attacks specifically target docking stations to facilitate bicycle theft. Criminals have destroyed more than 1,400 docks by damaging covers, wiring, and electronic sensors. Additionally, over 1,000 bicycles have been forcibly removed from the system. While most stolen bikes are recovered the same day via GPS, the destruction of infrastructure has left more than 30 stations out of service, particularly in the Arroios and Santa Maria Maior districts.

The financial impact of this recent wave is estimated at approximately 400,000 euros. Looking at the broader historical context, the city reported that between 2017 and 2025, over 12,000 repairs were required due to vandalism, with cumulative losses exceeding three million euros.