ACKNOWLEDGING the escalating violence in states like Rio de Janeiro and others President Lula da Silva unveiled a comprehensive plan to tackle organized crime and militias head-on, and this is by temporarily militarizing domestic ports and airports.
This operation will involve multiple government agencies, including the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, the Ministry of Defense, the armed forces, and the federal police.
The objective is to curb the activities of organized crime, including drug trafficking and militias.
Key measures include expanding and strengthening operations at major ports, borders, and airports in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.
This move aims to clamp down on illegal activities that have plagued these Brazilian regions.
The region of Rio de Janeiro, long considered a logistics hub for drug dealing and weapon trafficking in Brazil, has witnessed a surge in violence.
Local gangs and dealers, often referred to as “militias,” have gained power, leading to an increase in criminal activities.
Meanwhile, the Brazilian government is bolstering law enforcement with additional personnel and equipment to ensure the safety and security of these areas.
An integrated committee for financial investigation and asset recovery has been established to weaken the financial power of these criminal organizations.
Extra manpower will be deployed to maintain order on highways in Rio de Janeiro, a significant step to enhance safety and security for citizens.
Also, a Special Group to Combat Organized Crime (GAECO), is now operating to prevent and repress the activities of criminal organizations throughout the country.
These temporary measures were put in place following a series of high-profile killings and violent incidents, including the recent torching of at least 35 buses in Rio de Janeiro in retaliation for the police’s actions against a gang leader’s relative.
Since the launch of this operation, Brazilian law enforcement, in collaboration with Gaeco, arrested 28 individuals and conducted search and seizure warrants on Wednesday, marking a significant development in the fight against organized crime.
The operation is expected to take effect until May 2024, and it could possibly be extended.
