Portugal’s security forces have launched a nationwide crackdown to curb irregular migration, creating anxiety and uncertainty among many migrant workers.
The country’s National Republican Guard (NRG) said that, since the start of 2026, more than 300 irregular migrants had been identified in various operations carried out by land, sea and air. In addition, around 150 people had been served notices to leave the country voluntarily within a set period.
In recent times, searches have been stepped up in agricultural areas, strawberry farms, railway stations, major roads and coastal areas. The operations are being conducted most heavily in the labour-dependent agricultural sector in particular.
According to the report, a large share of the migrants identified are nationals of various South Asian and West African countries. Among them, workers from India, Nepal and Guinea-Bissau are the most numerous.
Although many migrants come to Portugal in hope of a better life, they face various problems after arriving. Lacking legal documents, many are forced to work long hours for low wages. High rents, unhealthy housing, long working hours and the pressure of sending money home have made their lives even harder.
Human-rights workers say that, because of language problems and legal complexities, many migrants are not even aware of their own rights, and so are easily exploited.
A spokesperson for the NRG, however, said the operation was not aimed at the nationals of any particular country. Its main purpose was to stop human trafficking and reduce opportunities for illegal residence and work, the spokesperson said.
He also said that, in future, strict measures would be taken against firms that provided illegal employment.
The documents of the migrants currently detained are being verified. Those who have been given notices to leave the country may be sent back to their home countries if they do not leave within the set time.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report