From the Guardian · · 1m 10s
Manchester City whistleblower Rui Pinto leaves Portugal
Rui Pinto to flee Portugal after safety fears from terminated witness protection.
In brief
Rui Pinto to flee Portugal after safety fears from terminated witness protection. Rui Pinto, founder of Football Leaks, will leave Portugal due to safety risks after his witness protection was terminated by authorities following Manchester City's guilty verdict. Originally reported by the Guardian.
Rui Pinto's safety concerns
Rui Pinto revealed he is preparing to leave Portugal due to safety fears after his witness protection status was terminated by Portuguese authorities.
“Rui Pinto has revealed he is preparing to leave Portugal because he fears for his safety after being informed that his participation in the country’s witness protection programme has been terminated.”
Multiple death threats
Pinto reported receiving multiple death threats and facing a serious risk of an assassination attempt following the termination of his protection.
“multiple death threats”
Manchester City guilty verdict
Manchester City were found guilty of 115 charges by an independent commission two days before Pinto's protection was terminated.
“115 charges”
GoFundMe campaign
Pinto launched a GoFundMe campaign with a €3m target after receiving €4,000 in the first half-hour.
“€3m”
Lawyers' appeal
Pinto's lawyers will appeal the decision, stating he is more vulnerable than since 2020 and the termination was a failure of the rule of law.
“more vulnerable than at any point since 2020”
Recent assault
Pinto was assaulted in Lisbon last April, raising concerns about ongoing risks from his disclosures.
“assaulted in Lisbon”
The takeaway
Rui Pinto, founder of Football Leaks, will leave Portugal due to safety risks after his witness protection was terminated by authorities following Manchester City's guilty verdict.
