Movimento Armilar Lusitano members to face terrorism trial

Nine members of the Movimento Armilar Lusitano (MAL) will face trial in Portugal for terrorism, weapons trafficking, and mediation. A judge at the Central Criminal Instruction Court confirmed the prosecution's accusations, describing the group as a “minimally organized,” nationalist, and extremist organization with neo-Nazi motivations.

Investigators allege the group planned to use violence to overthrow the democratic regime and aimed to form a militia. Evidence includes the use of 3D printers to manufacture hybrid firearms, grenades, explosives, and silencers. The group reportedly conducted training in military orientation, martial arts, and weapons handling to prepare for extreme social and economic disruption.

The group maintained a database of approximately 120 targets, including 40 politicians and 80 public figures, whom they labeled as “undesirables.” Targets included high-ranking officials such as Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and former Prime Minister António Costa. The database contained sensitive personal information, including addresses, phone numbers, and family details.