PF Breaks Comando Vermelho Internet Monopoly in Rio

Overview

• Federal Police agents carried out Operation Backbone on Monday, executing 23 preventive arrest warrants and 24 search warrants across Rio and nearby municipalities to dismantle a network that controlled internet services in favelas.
• At least 19 people were detained, including Márcia Gama Nepomuceno and her son Lucas, and Rio councillor Fábio Silva, with the STF-authorized measures reaching people inside prisons and business addresses.
• Investigators say armed group members sabotaged lawful operators by cutting cables and burning distribution boxes, forcing residents and shops to buy the so-called “internet do tráfico” and charging fees to authorized providers.
• A court ordered the blocking of up to R$558 million in assets and the suspension of 42 companies’ activities, and the PF asked Anatel to revoke authorizations while ensuring continuity of service for affected communities.
• The raids build on earlier probes into militia-linked fuel laundering and show prosecutors aim to disrupt how the Comando Vermelho launders proceeds through event firms, real estate and crypto while the investigation and prosecutions continue.