Citizens request intervention of the torture prevention mechanism at the demonstration in Lisbon

Citizens in Lisbon have requested the urgent intervention of the National Prevention Mechanism (MNP) against torture during upcoming protests. They seek MNP's presence at the demonstration on October 31 and the ability to conduct unannounced visits to police stations where detainees may be held. This request follows a police operation that resulted in 55 arrests. The petitioners emphasize the MNP's role in preventing mistreatment rather than documenting it post-factum. They also call for visits to locations where detainees were held and the preservation of custody records. The request aligns with the UN's Optional Protocol against Torture, which includes monitoring protests involving crowd control techniques. The Justice Ombudsman has been contacted for confirmation on MNP's activation.