Montenegro surrounded after police intervention

The Portuguese government's defense of police intervention during protests faced significant backlash from both left and right political factions. Critics, including PSD's Jorge Moreira da Silva, labeled the police action as unjustifiable and a political error, warning it could fuel populism and radicalization. While some, like André Ventura of Chega, supported the police, they also disparaged the protesters as a minority of vandals. The opposition, particularly the PS, pressured Prime Minister Luís Montenegro for accountability, emphasizing the need for a political solution to the unrest. The situation highlighted a divide in responses to police actions, with calls for greater involvement from the President of the Republic amid concerns over civil rights and state repression.