Law enforcement in Portugal originated with local communities, under the authority of feudal lords and courts.
In modern times, it is the responsibility of three bodies:
Guarda Nacional Republicana: National Republican Guard. The Portuguese national gendarmerie force that mainly work out of major cities but in 98% of the Portuguese territory and provides a national highway patrol, a fiscal guard and a national environment protection police.
PolÃÂcia de Segurança Pública: Public Security Police. The Portuguese national civilian police force that works in larger urban areas, as well as at border checks.