'Justice for Benfica': Protest Called for Saturday After Dog Killed at Praia do Matadouro

Residents are calling a protest for tomorrow, Saturday 26 September, at 4pm in front of the Capela de São Sebastião in Ericeira, demanding justice for Benfica, the small dog killed this week in an attack by another dog at Praia do Matadouro.

The call went out on Instagram under the banner "Justiça por Benfica" ("Justice for Benfica"), next to a photo of the long-haired dog. "Come and help us get justice," the post reads. Organisers say the TV channel CMTV will be there, and they are asking anyone who has been hurt by the same dog, or whose own animal has been, to come and add their voice: "the more victims, the better."

The protest follows earlier accounts that the dog involved in the attack had been aggressive before, and that its owner has refused to keep it on a leash or fit it with a muzzle. The Ericeira Times has not independently verified these accounts and is not naming anyone involved.

What: "Justiça por Benfica" protest
When: Saturday 26 September 2026, 4pm
Where: in front of the Capela de São Sebastião, Ericeira

Anyone who has been attacked or threatened by a loose dog, or whose pet has been, can report it to the GNR Posto Territorial da Ericeira on 261 860 710 or through GNR's electronic complaints portal, ideally with photos or video and the date, time and place noted. A formal complaint on record carries more weight than a protest alone. In an emergency, call 112.