Police Operation Targets Suspects in Shocking Bus Driver Attack Amid Lisbon Unrest

Police Operation Underway

The Judiciary Police (PJ) launched a major operation this Wednesday morning to capture those responsible for the fire attack on a bus driver in Santo António dos Cavaleiros, Loures. This incident occurred during a wave of unrest following the death of Odair Moniz at the hands of the PSP approximately a month ago. The suspects are facing serious charges, including attempted homicide.

Details of the Attack

The PJ's operation is led by the homicide section, involving around 50 inspectors from the Lisbon directorate. The target is about ten suspects, all young residents of the Cidade Nova area, identified through witness testimonies. In the early hours of October 24, they ambushed the victim while he was driving a Carris Metropolitana bus. They hurled gasoline-filled bottles into the vehicle, igniting a fire that caused severe burns to the driver, Tiago Cacais, who has spent nearly a month in the Santa Maria Hospital's burn unit.

Background of the Incident

Some suspects reportedly have a history of youth crime. The attack on the bus driver is considered the most severe crime under investigation amidst the unrest that followed Moniz's death, who was shot by the PSP during a chase in the Cova da Moura neighborhood on October 21. Additionally, several buses, cars, and trash containers were set on fire during the disturbances.