A man wanted by Portuguese authorities was recently interviewed by prosecutors as the complainant in a car theft case, according to reports.
Matthias Schmelz, who has been a fugitive from justice for nearly seven years, reported the theft to authorities. Prosecutors questioned the suspect, but did not confirm his current location or inquire about allegations of sexual abuse, cmjornal.pt reported.
The case is unusual given Schmelz’s fugitive status, raising questions about the investigative process. This incident underscores the complexities that can arise when individuals wanted on criminal charges turn into involved in separate legal matters.
Meanwhile, Portuguese authorities are also investigating a car theft ring allegedly operated from within a prison. Prosecutors have accused three individuals of stealing 25 vehicles between 2018 and February 24, 2021, using technology to decode car keys, jn.pt reported.
The vehicles were reportedly dismantled and sold for parts. One of the accused allegedly directed the criminal activity while incarcerated, providing contacts to facilitate the sale of stolen cars and access to equipment needed to bypass security systems. He continued to participate actively after his release from prison in March 2020.
In a separate case, a group of 19 men and five women have been accused of stealing at least 250 rental cars from agencies in Portugal and other European countries, pressreader.com reported on January 21, 2026. The stolen vehicles were then modified and resold in European and African countries. Prosecutors are seeking to seize assets obtained through the scheme.
