The Polcia Judiciria (PJ) conducted searches in Lisbon and Cascais due to suspicions of favoritism in the sale of municipal land for a luxury hotel development.

He emphasized that he did not have financial or property management responsibilities during his time on the council and expressed solidarity with his team's decisions.

These searches included eight warrants, targeting potential crimes related to urban planning regulations and economic participation in business.

Carlos Carreiras, the current mayor of Cascais, confirmed the PJ's investigations, which focus on two urban planning processes involving former vice-president Miguel Pinto Luz.

He concluded by stating that the searches represent the judicial system functioning properly, reinforcing his confidence that the truth will emerge.

Pinto Luz expressed uncertainty about whether he is a target in the ongoing investigation but remains confident in the judicial system.

Miguel Pinto Luz, now the Minister of Infrastructure, stated that he has always acted with integrity during his tenure in the municipal government of Cascais.

He described the searches as a necessary scrutiny that provides an opportunity for clarity and resolution regarding the matters at hand.

The investigation involves the alleged sale of an 800-square-meter municipal plot at a price exceeding its assessed value, although Pinto Luz clarified that this plot is classified as a national ecological reserve and not suitable for construction.

Pinto Luz denied knowledge of any tax exemptions related to the hotel construction, asserting that such matters are public and transparent.

He called for transparency and responsibility in public life, particularly with the upcoming legislative elections scheduled for May 18, 2025.

Pinto Luz urged for equal publicity regarding both the opening and closure of the investigation to ensure fair information dissemination during the electoral period.