On Wednesday, police authorities in Portugal announced the detention of three individuals following a second consecutive night of violent protests in the greater Lisbon area. This unrest was sparked by the fatal shooting of a man during an arrest earlier in the week.

The disturbances have been particularly pronounced in seven municipalities within the metropolitan region after Odair Moniz, a 43-year-old Black man originally from Cape Verde, was shot by police early Monday in the city of Amadora. Reports indicate that Moniz attempted to escape upon noticing a police vehicle and subsequently crashed into several parked cars. Police also stated that he was in possession of a knife at the time.

Such a reaction to the police shooting is relatively rare in Portugal. According to local media, the officer involved in the incident has been stripped of his service weapon while investigations proceed. In an effort to control the situation, police are ramping up security measures in neighborhoods known to be inhabited by lower-income populations.

The recent wave of protests led to injuries among two police officers, who were struck by stones, and two bus passengers suffered minor stab wounds, according to a police statement released on Wednesday. The statement detailed significant property damage, reporting that 13 vehicles were harmed, which included two buses that were stolen and later set ablaze. Additionally, one police vehicle was set on fire, while another suffered broken windows.

Most incidents of arson were targeted at waste containers and public infrastructure. In light of this unrest, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa emphasized in a statement that, despite the existing social, economic, and cultural issues facing the nation, Portugal remains a largely peaceful society that aims to maintain its tranquility.