Today, Rio’s Governor Claudio Castro announced that Rio is now confronting mafias instead of militias.
This came a day after three doctors were killed in Barra da Tijuca. A fourth doctor is in the hospital, seriously injured.
Castro stressed the criminals’ audacity. They committed the murders in a public, camera-covered area.
For him, this proves the city is dealing with a dangerous group. Castro adds that this crime problem is not just a Rio issue but a Brazil-wide one.
He showed compassion for the families of the victims. The governor praised the police for quickly figuring out a main lead.
According to TV Globo, one victim might have been mistaken for a local militia member.
Governor Castro was clear. “Violent, heavily armed criminals will face stern law enforcement,” he said.
“We won’t give an inch to these groups and will intensify our efforts,” he added.
Ricardo Capelli, a Ministry of Justice official, stood by Castro. Sent by President Lula, Capelli called for unity among institutions.
He argued that the solution lies in collective action. Importantly, he urged to keep the issue free from ideological agendas.
Background
Rio has long been notorious for crime. But this change marks a dark turning point.
Across Brazil, organized crime affects both society and economy. Globally, this reminds us of mafia activities in countries like Italy and Mexico.
The governor’s new label puts pressure on law enforcement. Similar problems have led to external aid or even military action in other countries.
But Brazil’s politics make such outside help unlikely. Analysts will closely watch how this affects both national policies and Brazil’s global image.