That status is, he said, "socially destructive", even if it guarantees him more rights – such as the right not to answer investigators’ questions.

"I was constituted an ‘arguido’ [person of interest] in the case concerning the [theft] at Tancos” army depot, Azeredo Lopes said in a statement sent to Lusa. “This status, while it is true that it guarantees me more procedural rights, is absolutely inexplicable in view of the facts relating to my involvement in the case, which was only as political overseer.”

The former minister stressed that he is "convinced" that he will be cleared of any responsibility in the case.

"I trust in justice and will cooperate with it, as is my duty,” he said. “I am convinced, because I have done nothing illegal or incorrect, that I shall be complete and absolutely exonerated of any responsibilities in this process."

Still, he laments the fact that he has constituted a person of interest, fearing implications.

"I do not conceal that this situation discomfits and constrains me, because the condition of defendant, while legally a guarantee of my rights, is socially destructive,” he said. “I am a committed supporter of the rule of law, so I will not be commenting … on the case while it is covered by judicial secrecy, as is the case."

The theft of materiel at the Tancos depot was disclosed by army officials on 29 June 2017; four months later, the military police (PJM) revealed that it had reappeared in Chamusca region, around 20 km away, and been recovered in collaboration with members of the national guard (GNR) based in the Algarve.

Among the stolen material were grenades, including anti-tank weapons, plastic explosives and a large amount of ammunition.

The recovery of the military material prompted a further investigation in which the now former director of the PJM was detained.

On 12 October 2018, Azeredo Lopes tendered his resignation as minister, as details of the case emerged, including allegations – which he has denied – that he had some prior knowledge of the process by which the materiel was recovered.