One of the key players in the Golden Visa scandal has been reported to be crying on the shoulder of another cellmate.
In an alarming insight as to just how many security personnel end up cited for corruption, Correio da Manhã presents the story of SEF boss Manuel Palos confiding in former PJ inspector João de Sousa.
De Sousa, himself on corruption charges, is reported to be sharing Palos’ cell in Évora prison.
As CM reports, Évora jail is set aside solely for members of the security forces, and it is full to bursting. Designed for a maximum number of 45 prisoners, it currently holds “around 60”.
De Sousa, charged with criminal association over links to gold dealers evading the tax authorities, is said to be en-route for “house arrest” wearing what has become known as electronic bling. But for now he is “supporting” Palos – who he told CM has shown himself to be very “nervous and uncomfortable”.
On at least one occasion, the former head of Portugal’s Aliens and Borders agency is reported to have broken down in tears, frequently saying: “I never imagined I would be in this situation.”
“Great emotional instability” is how de Sousa described his cellmate’s condition, though CM points out that this should all change by next week when Palos, too, is due to be released home on an electronic bracelet.
Already, fellow defendants Jaime Couto Alves and former secretary-general of Justice Maria Antónia Anes are “home” on electronic bling, forbidden to contact security services, magistrates or any other authority connected with the ongoing investigation.
