Overview

• 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.