Operation Influencer

 

Based on the investigation into Operação Influencer (Operation Influencer) in Portugal, the investigation faced significant setbacks due to discrepancies in how evidence was handled and interpreted between the Public Prosecution Service (Ministério Público) and the investigating judges.

Judge's Rulings vs. Prosecution: The investigating judge in the case, Nuno Dias Costa, challenged the prosecution's evidence, stating it did not sufficiently support accusations of corruption.

 

Mistaken Identity in Evidence: Early in the investigation (November 2023), it was revealed that prosecutors mistaken the name of Prime Minister António Costa with the Minister of Economy António Costa Silva in the transcript of tapped conversations, a crucial error that, along with other issues, led to doubts about the strength of the case.

Release of Suspects: The five individuals initially arrested in the operation (including the PM's Chief of Staff) were released by the judge, who did not deem it necessary to keep them in custody.

Regarding the specific assertion about a Court of Appeal judgment not being known to the Attorney General, the search results indicate that the investigation has been characterized by intense scrutiny of the Attorney General's Office (PGR) regarding the handling of evidence and allegations of influence peddling. The investigation continues to evolve, with ongoing appeals by both the defense and the prosecution regarding the measures imposed on the suspects.