In a statement, the PSP explains that the operation ‘Violence? No thanks!’ will run until the end of the month and is aimed at students in the 3rd cycle of basic education and secondary education.

In the 2024/2025 school year, the PSP recorded 2,791 criminal incidents, totalling 3,257 crimes (several crimes can be verified in the same incident), 5.3% fewer than in 2023/2024.

Of these crimes, 2,092 occurred on school grounds, and 136 occurred on the way to and from school or to extracurricular activities.

Physical assaults, threats and verbal abuse continue to be the most common types of crimes committed in schools, according to the PSP, which is linking this preventive operation to the School Day of Non-Violence and Peace, celebrated on 30 January.

Until the end of the month, the PSP will be carrying out actions to raise awareness among the entire school community on issues such as violence in schools, the use and possession of weapons, and juvenile delinquency. It believes that this awareness-raising has contributed to a decrease in school-related crime.

During these actions, in addition to characterising juvenile delinquency and explaining to students what can lead them to adopt violent behaviour, as well as the consequences, they are also warned that, despite being minors, if they commit acts that can be classified as crimes, there will be consequences that could interfere with their future.

Alongside this awareness-raising component, students are also encouraged to resolve their conflicts peacefully, through dialogue rather than violence.

The police officers from the Safe School Programme Teams who carry out these activities teach students some tips for resolving conflicts, methods for calming down when they feel angry, and also explain who they can turn to for help.

The PSP also reminds students that any complaints can be made either in person at a police station or by email to escolasegura@psp.pt.