Federal Police Launch Operation Backbone Targeting Comando Vermelho Internet Monopoly

Overview

• On Monday the Polícia Federal executed 23 preventive arrest warrants and 24 search-and-seizure orders in Operation Backbone, detaining dozens of suspects across Rio de Janeiro and nearby municipalities.
• Investigators say armed members of the Comando Vermelho used violence, cable cutting and arson to force residents and businesses to buy a controlled ‘internet of the traffickers’ and to block competitor repairs.
• Courts ordered the blocking of up to R$558 million in assets and the suspension of activities for 42 companies and 40 individuals accused of acting as front firms and money‑laundering channels.
• The PF notified Anatel to revoke or interdict telecom authorizations for implicated providers while asking regulators to take steps that preserve service for affected communities.
• Authorities say the probe is part of the Força-Tarefa Missão Redentor II and that suspects face charges including domínio social estruturado, extortion, interruption of telematic services, clandestine telecommunications and money laundering.