Rio de Janeiro on High Alert After Criminal Gang Torches 35 Buses in Retaliation for Police Killing of Crime Boss
Twelve arrests made and increased security deployed, including use of helicopters and drones, following retaliatory arson attacks by militia in response to the police killing of Matheus Silva Resende, a key member of Rio's largest crime gang.
- Rio de Janeiro was put on high alert, and additional security measures including the deployment of helicopters and drones were instigated, following arson attacks on at least 35 buses by a criminal gang.
- The attacks, which took place in the western part of the city, were in retaliation for the police killing of Matheus Silva Resende, a key member of the largest militia group in the state.
- Twelve people were arrested in connection to the attacks, though six were later released due to lack of evidence. Efforts to set a cargo truck on fire were also thwarted by security forces.
- The fire disrupted public transportation, affecting the commute of residents and leading to cancellation of classes in local schools.
- Militias in Rio, often composed of former and current police officers, originated as forces to protect against drug gang lawlessness but have evolved into criminal units, controlling about 10% of Rio's metropolitan area.
Washington Post 