Reinforced measures in Operation “Bom Caminho 2026” will include drones

The GNR (National Republican Guard) in Viana do Castelo announced that it will include the use of drones in the “Bom Caminho 2026” (Good Camino 2026) Operation, which aims to ensure the safety of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago and will run until the end of October, with reinforced resources in the field. These devices have the advantage of covering large areas, flying at an altitude that allows aggressors to be identified, and being highly effective because of the surprise factor.

On May 15, at the GNR Seminar on safety on the Camino de Santiago, held at the Municipal Library of Vila Nova de Cerveira, territorial commander Colonel Maciel da Silva explained to journalists that one of the goals of this measure is to prevent acts of indecent exposure. He clarified that, so far, the cases have not gone beyond that, but that it is important to act before the situation worsens.

Sexual harassment crimes involving men exposing themselves to women pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago are repeated every year and occur mainly when there are few people on the route, leaving victims more exposed and vulnerable. Although these acts are very disturbing for the victims, the tendency not to file complaints worsens the problem and makes it more difficult for authorities to act.

Colonel Maciel da Silva also said that, in addition to drones, the operation will mobilize military personnel on foot, on horseback, and on bicycles, depending on the type of terrain. Horses are ideal for more rural routes, for surveillance and mobility, while bicycles are more suited to coastal environments because of the boardwalks and the long distances covered. At the event, the GNR also presented a green wristband with the emergency number 112, to be distributed to pilgrims.