Algarve tops Portugal for home burglaries as GNR issues summer warning

The Algarve has recorded more home burglaries than any other district policed by the GNR so far this year, prompting the force to urge residents from all over the country to take extra precautions before leaving for their summer holidays.

According to figures released by the National Republican Guard (GNR), 2,344 residential burglaries were recorded across its area of responsibility between January 1 and May 31. Of these, 371 occurred in the district of Faro, the highest total in the country, ahead of Porto (255), Lisbon (216), Setúbal (205) and Leiria (183).

Although the overall number of residential burglaries has fallen slightly in recent years – from 6,469 in 2024 to 6,275 in 2025 – the force says the crime remains a significant concern, particularly during the summer months when many homes are left unoccupied.

The GNR said burglars typically target properties that appear empty, looking for tell-tale signs such as permanently closed shutters, accumulated mail, a lack of lighting or movement, and even information shared on social media about holidays or extended absences.

Doors, windows, balconies, garages and less visible access points are among the most common entry routes, while cash, jewellery, watches, electronic devices and other easily portable valuables remain the items most frequently stolen.

To reduce the risk of burglary, the GNR is advising residents to ensure all doors, windows and gates are securely locked before travelling, ask neighbours or relatives to keep an eye on their property and collect any post, avoid announcing holidays on social media and, where possible, use timers to switch lights on and off to create the impression that someone is at home.

The force also recommends installing alarm systems or CCTV where possible and reporting any suspicious behaviour or unfamiliar vehicles near residential properties.

Anyone returning home to find signs of a break-in is advised to avoid touching anything inside the property and immediately contact the authorities so forensic evidence can be preserved.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.