Paraguay Bolsters Border with Brazil Amid Fears of Fleeing Criminals

Following Argentina’s actions, Paraguay has also intensified security measures along its shared border with Brazil, in response to concerns over potential fugitives from the infamous Comando Vermelho (CV) criminal organization seeking refuge in its territory.

The move, announced on October 30, follows a massive police operation in Rio de Janeiro that targeted the group’s strongholds, prompting similar alerts in neighboring countries.

The Brazilian raid, launched on October 28, involved approximately 2,500 police officers and soldiers storming favelas like Penha and Alemão. Clashes resulted in at least 64 deaths, including four officers, and 81 arrests.

Criminals used barricades, explosive-laden drones, and heavy gunfire, disrupting city life with road closures and public safety warnings. This operation marks one of Brazil’s most aggressive efforts to curb organized crime in urban areas.

Founded in the 1970s within a Rio prison during Brazil’s military dictatorship, CV began as a prisoner alliance blending common criminals with leftist guerrillas.

It has since transformed into a transnational network with around 30,000 members, dominating drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and extortion in states like Rio, Amazonas, and Mato Grosso.

CV Gang Crackdowns Highlight South America’s Border Risks

The group exploits porous borders for cocaine from the Andes and marijuana from Paraguay, South America’s top producer. CV’s presence in Paraguay is well-established, particularly in border regions such as Amambay, Canindeyú, and Alto Paraná.

Past incidents include the 2013 capture of an armed CV cell, a 2020 tunnel escape from a Paraguayan prison involving dozens of gang members, and 2023 joint arrests with Brazilian forces.

The tri-border area with Argentina serves as a smuggling epicenter, fueling violence, assassinations, and media self-censorship.

Under President Santiago Peña, Paraguay’s National Defense Council authorized increased patrols, vehicle checks, and intelligence operations along the eastern frontier. Interior Minister Enrique Riera emphasized coordination with Brazil and Argentina via the Tripartite Command.

Argentina, led by President Javier Milei, has labeled CV and rival Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) as narcoterrorist groups, imposing stricter entry protocols for Brazilians. Uruguay has also heightened border vigilance.

This escalation underscores the interconnected security challenges in South America, where gang crackdowns in one nation risk spillover crime, destabilizing economies and communities. Enhanced regional cooperation is essential to contain these threats and safeguard vulnerable borders.