Portuguese authorities conduct investigations into tax fraud and municipal press services

The Portuguese National Republican Guard (GNR) conducted Operation Invoice, a series of over 30 searches across the districts of Aveiro, Braga, Porto, and Santarém. The operation targets a suspected VAT fraud scheme involving the purchase of used vehicles from various European Union member states for resale in Portugal. Authorities estimate the fiscal loss exceeds two million euros. The searches resulted in the arrest of a 47-year-old man suspected of possessing prohibited weapons, and the seizure of seven firearms, ammunition, mobile phones, and other evidentiary documents.

Separately, the Judicial Police carried out searches at the Matosinhos City Council. According to municipal officials, the actions are part of an ongoing investigation regarding press advisory services. The council stated that it has cooperated fully with the authorities and provided all requested documentation.