More than one hundred cameras are currently being installed at key locations across the town and wider municipality. These include the river beaches of Azibo, padel courts and other sports facilities, the city’s urban park, cultural venues, and even the local primary school.

The surveillance system will operate in direct contact with the GNR’s situation room, enabling officers to monitor the cameras continuously. According to Mayor Benjamim Rodrigues, the measure aims to safeguard both people and property while preventing vandalism, which has long been a recurring issue. He stressed that acts of damage impose heavy costs on the municipality, which must repair infrastructure, while also harming public assets and inconveniencing residents.

“This initiative is both a deterrent and an appeal to civic responsibility,” Rodrigues said, noting that incidents have included damage to the Azibo reservoir docks and various public amenities, from lighting and lampposts to pavements. While these occurrences are not increasing, the mayor emphasised the need to act decisively.

Lieutenant Colonel Vítor Romualdo of the GNR highlighted that Macedo de Cavaleiros already has a low crime rate, and the cameras are not a response to rising offences. Instead, they are intended to reinforce public confidence. “There is no cause for concern in terms of crime levels. This system is about ensuring security and providing reassurance to those who use public spaces,” he explained.

The project, financed by the municipality, represents an investment of several tens of thousands of euros. Exact figures have not been disclosed, as more cameras are still being acquired.