Police in the Algarve have arrested an Irish tourist on suspicion of attempted homicide following a violent altercation at an apart-hotel in Albufeira that left several Dutch holidaymakers injured.
The incident occurred early Monday morning at the Soldoiro Tourist Apartments in Albufeira’s Praia da Oura area, around 4:30 AM. The confrontation reportedly began over loud music coming from the Dutch tourists’ apartment and escalated into a mass fight involving weapons.
Initial reports indicated that one victim’s life was in danger, but police have now confirmed that four Dutchmen, aged between 17 and 21, suffered “life-threatening” stab wounds during the altercation. The injuries resulted in their hospitalization.
A spokesman for the Policia Judiciaria (PJ) on the Algarve provided details on Wednesday, stating that a 19-year-old Irish national had been arrested on solid evidence of aggravated attempted homicide. The arrest followed an investigation into the incident, which saw an intense and violent exchange between three Irish and nine Dutch tourists.
The PJ’s Southern Directorate reported that the altercation began with a dispute over noise and quickly turned physical. Evidence collected during the police inquiry led to the identification and arrest of the suspect.
The detainee’s judicial proceedings are pending, and it remains unclear if he has appeared before a judge. The courts will decide whether to remand him in custody or grant conditional bail as the investigation continues.
Police sources confirmed that three knives were seized at the scene, though no further comments have been made regarding the weapons.
The incident highlights the escalating tensions between the two groups of tourists and has drawn significant attention to the resort area. Detectives have not yet indicated whether additional arrests are expected.
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