Fact Check: Portugal police arrest six in shocking far-right militia crackdown

Fact Check: "Portugal police arrest six in shocking far-right militia crackdown"

What We Know

On June 17, 2025, Portuguese authorities arrested six individuals linked to a far-right group known as the Movimento Armilar Lusitano (MAL). This group was reportedly attempting to establish itself as a political movement supported by an armed militia. The police seized a significant cache of weapons, including explosives, firearms (some of which were 3D-printed), and knives during the operation (Reuters, Washington Post). The detainees are suspected of various crimes, including terrorism, discrimination, and incitement to violence (Euronews).

Manuela Santos, head of the counterterrorism task force, indicated that the group was actively arming itself, recruiting members, and training for potential violent actions, although the specific nature of these actions remains unclear (Washington Post). The investigation revealed that the group had been gaining traction during the pandemic, capitalizing on anti-system sentiments (Reuters).

Analysis

The claim regarding the arrests is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Reuters report provides a detailed account of the arrests and the nature of the group's activities, highlighting the police's concerns about the group's capabilities and intentions. The Washington Post corroborates this information, emphasizing the seizure of weapons and the group's extremist ideology. Furthermore, Euronews adds context by noting the increasing relevance of far-right sentiments across Europe, which aligns with the motivations behind the group's formation.

The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations with a track record of accurate reporting. The information provided is consistent across these outlets, reinforcing the credibility of the claims made. Additionally, the police's statements and the context of the arrests suggest a serious threat, which is being taken seriously by law enforcement.

Conclusion

The claim that "Portugal police arrest six in shocking far-right militia crackdown" is True. The arrests and the associated seizure of weapons confirm the existence of a far-right group actively preparing for violent actions. The evidence from multiple credible sources supports the assertion that this crackdown is significant in the context of rising far-right extremism in Europe.

Fact Check: Portugal police arrest six in shocking far-right militia crackdown