Referencing data from Frontex, Carneiro noted a more than 30% reduction in irregular entries into the European Union, particularly along major illegal immigration routes in the Central and Eastern Mediterranean.

His remarks come in the wake of a recent incident where a wooden boat carrying 38 Moroccan migrants arrived on August 8, 2025, prompting their placement in a temporary installation center until their return process is completed.

Carneiro also engaged with Rute Silva, the Mayor of Vila do Bispo, who expressed concerns regarding the welfare of the migrants and requested improved governmental oversight.

In light of these developments, Carneiro aims to counter claims that seek to undermine democratic institutions, asserting the safety of the country's borders with supporting evidence.

During a visit to Lagos in the Algarve, José Luís Carneiro, the Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (PS), addressed recent developments regarding border security.

Carneiro announced that Portuguese borders are now 'safer' due to reforms in the Servico de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF), which have significantly enhanced maritime surveillance.

He highlighted that before the 2023 reforms, 35% of Portugal's maritime border lacked security coverage due to insufficient resources within the SEF.

Now, the entire maritime border is monitored by the Coastal Control Unit of the Guarda Nacional Republicana, improving overall security.