The Central Department of Investigation and Criminal Action (DCIAP) of the Public Ministry is conducting a search operation involving the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) and several companies in the textile and personal protective equipment sector, as part of an investigation into alleged irregularities in public contracts carried out between 2015 and 2023.
According to a official statementthe operation, called “Obesequium”, aims to collect evidence related to public procurement procedures for the supply of personal protective equipment used to fight forest fires. are being fulfilled six home search warrants e four search warrants for business premises and a public entityincluding ANEPC’s own facilities.
The investigations also take place in the homes of managers and accountants of the entities involved, as well as in accounting offices and specialized suppliers.
At issue are suspicions of the practice of active and passive corruption crimes and of economic participation in businessthere are signs of illegal favoritism of competitors in public procedures that will have caused damage to the Portuguese State.
The operation mobilizes 48 GNR soldiers e five public prosecutors of the DCIAP.
The process is under judicial secrecy and is being conducted by the Public Ministry, with the support of the GNR Criminal Investigation Directorate.
ANEPC confirms searches and says it is collaborating with the authorities
In a statement to which DN had access, the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC) has already confirmed the carrying out, this Thursday, October 23rd, of investigations at its facilities in Carnaxide, conducted by the competent authorities, and sends additional information for the public clarification already provided by DCIAP.
ANEPC adds that it is “collaborating with the authorities and reiterates its full availability to provide the necessary support within the scope of the ongoing measures”.
Contacted by DN, Duarte da Costa, currently technical advisor at the Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations and who presided over ANEPC between 2020 and 2025, declined to comment. It was not possible to contact the previous presidents. Mourato Nunes, accused in the “anti-smoking collar case” (2017-2020). Joaquim Leitão (2016-2017) and Grave Pereira (2914-2016). Therefore, this investigation focuses on the management period of these four.
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