Nazaré Corruption Scandal: Major Police Raids Target Council and State Bodies Over Suspected Fraud

Operation Dunas Unfolds in Nazaré

This Monday, the Polícia Judiciária (PJ) launched a sweeping search operation, targeting the Nazaré Municipal Council, five state institutions, three commercial companies, and a tourist development. The operation, dubbed Operation Dunas, involved 15 search warrants and was executed by the Department of Criminal Investigation in Leiria, under the direction of the Central Department of Investigation and Prosecution.

Key Suspicions and Locations

At the heart of the investigation are suspicions of crimes including economic participation in business, forgery, corruption, and money laundering. Investigators conducted searches not only at the council but also at Docapesca in Nazaré Port, the Portuguese Environment Association in Caldas da Rainha, and the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR). The operation spanned regions including Lisbon, Caldas da Rainha, and Nazaré, mobilizing 40 criminal investigators, police science experts, and three public prosecutors, with support from specialized units for technological and financial forensics.

Focus on Concession Contract

The probe centers on allegations related to the processing of a 40-year concession contract for the private use of a public maritime domain area in the port zone of Porto de Abrigo da Nazaré. This area involves the rehabilitation and conservation of nine villas intended for tourism purposes. The PJ emphasized that the investigation will continue with the analysis of collected evidence, aiming for a swift and thorough conclusion.

Council's Response

In a statement, the Nazaré Municipal Council confirmed the searches at the town hall and assured it is "collaborating fully" with investigators, providing all requested information with transparency and institutional cooperation. The council has declined further comments while the investigation is ongoing.

Source: Jornal da Tarde | November 10, 2025