Section » Brazil

Jundiaí, Brazil: Six Detained for Drug Trafficking and Counterfeit Money

Terra reported on July 23, 2013 that the Dise (Precinct Investigations Narcotics) discovered a distribution center in Jundiaí where police seized cocaine, hydroponic marijuana, crack, drugs ready for sale, as well as R$30,000 in counterfeit bills. The value of the drugs is estimated at R$150,000. Police arrested six suspects. Since March, DIse reports that 70% of the gang leaders in Jundiaí have been arrested. Read Article

No CommentsPermalink

Amazonas, Brazil: Mayor Suspected of Sexual Exploitation Activity

jornaldamidia.com.br reported on July 21, 2013 that the mayor of Coari, Amazonas is being investigated by the Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents for running a network with fellow public officials to sexually exploit teenage girls. The mayor is suspected of paying between R$2,000 and R$3,000 for virgin girls 12-14 years old. The mayor has […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil: “Operation Border” Seizes Drugs and Electronic Devices

Globo reported on July 21, 2013 that the Federal Police Highway Police in conjunction with “Operation Border” seized numerous amounts of drugs and electronics in Mato Gross do Sul on Saturday (20). Seizures occurred in Itaquiraí with 300kg of marijuana confiscated as well as in Ponta Pora with 30 kg of marijuana and 227 electronic […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Paraíba, Brazil: Suspects Detained Use Government Money for Fraud Internet Program

On July 20, 2013 Globo reported that the Federal Police arrested 23 suspects for misusing more than R$ 1 million of public money for an internet program (Jampa Digital Project) designed to bring free internet to the city of Joao Pessoa. Instead, the money was used to pay for campaign expenses. The suspects arrested include […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Foreign Passengers Detained at Airport for Smuggling Cocaine

Terra reported on July 20, 2013 that the Federal Police detained two passengers at the Tom Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro, for attempting to transport drugs to Europe and Africa. A Dutch passenger was arrested for smuggling 2 pounds of cocaine destined to Lisbon, Portugal and eventually Amsterdam. The other man, a Russian […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Protesters Claim to Continue Demonstrations as Pope Visits Brazil

Terra reported on July 20, 2013 that the Brazilian Intelligence Agency has raised a “red” and “orange” alert for pressure groups and movements protesting in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo as Pope Francisco visits Brazil. Pope Francisco will address the current issue of protests in Brazil to young people as World Youth Day approaches. […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Amazonas, Brazil: Suspects Detained for Transporting Drugs in Boat

On July 18, 2013, Globo reported that the Federal Police confiscated 100 kilograms of drugs and detained 8 individuals including Brazilians, Peruvians, and Colombians. Police claim the drugs; hydrochloride, cocaine base paste, and marijuana were hidden in a canoe leaving from Peru to Fonte Boa near Manaus, Brazil. The suspects are currently awaiting trial. Read […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Salvador, Brazil: Joint Operation to End Counterfeit Trade

Globo reported on July 18, 2013 that the IRS and the police in Salvador, Bahia, conducted a joint operation to end the trade of illegally imported, counterfeit products. Products included cell phones, CDs, DVDs, watches, shoes, among other items. Police report that the items seized valued at around R$200,000. Read Article

No CommentsRead this post »

Cuiabá, Brazil: Security Personnel Receiving Additional Training for World Cup

On July 16, 2013 Plantão Notícias reported that to date approximately 240 public security officials have received training in Cuiabá for the 2014 World Cup 2014. The training is being undertaken in order to comply with the protocols of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA). The goal is to train 2,400 security officials at […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Mateus Leme, Brazil: Human Trafficking Gang Disbanded, 36 Victims Rescued

On July 16, 2013 Globo Noticias reported that authorities in Minas Gerais dismantled a human trafficking network operating a painting company in Mateus Leme, in the metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte. A complaint was registered by a worker who had been hired in the city of Macapá but, upon arriving at the company, discovered poor […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Parana, Brazil: Drug Traffickers Detained for Transporting 100 pounds of Drugs

odiaro.com.br reported on July 16, 2013 that the Federal Police in Mauá da Serra arresed two drug traffickers for transporting 100 pounds of drugs from Campo Grande to Curitiba. The suspects; a Brazilian and Paraguayan, showed suspicion when pulled over and questioned by police. The driver claims to receive U.S. $ 12,000 to deliver the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Police Arrest 33 Suspects for Drug Trafficking in Rocinha Favela

Globo reported on July 15, 2013 that after numerous hours of wiretapping and the use of camera surveillance, 33 people were arrested in the Rocinha favela in Rio de Janeiro, accused of involvement in drug trafficking operations. The revealed conversations do not conclude whether there was police involvement with traffickers although the investigation does not […]

No CommentsRead this post »

São Paulo, Brazil: Police Arrested for Assisting Drug Traffickers

Globo reported on July 16, 2013 that seven police officers who worked for the Department for Combating Drug Trafficking (DENARC) in São Paulo were arrested for drug trafficking conspiracy. According to police, thirteen officers in total are involved although only seven have been arrested. The officers received a R$300,000 bribe a year to inform the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Loreto, Peru: Two Women Rescued On Way to Be Prostituted in Brazil

On July 15, 2013 RPP Noticias reported that two young women were rescued as they were being trafficked to Brazil for prostitution. The two victims were a 17-year-old identified by the initials MRZL, and her 21-year-old neighbor Alajandrina Tapullima Romañol. The mother of the first victim contacted the Human Trafficking Division after her daughter managed […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Araçatuba, Brazil is Route for Trafficking in Persons, Drugs

On July 14, 2013 Folha da Região Noticias reported that the Marechal Rondon (SP-300) and Elyeser Montenegro Magalhães (SP-463) highways, which attract drug dealers and make Araçatuba a rural trafficking center, are also being used as a route for human trafficking and sexual exploitation. This finding was made based on information from state and federal […]

No CommentsRead this post »

São Paulo State, Brazil: “Slavery-like” Work Conditions Still Occurring

On July 14, 2013 Folha da Região Noticias reported that conditions similar to slavery are still a reality in the state of São Paulo. Last year, 38 men and 21 women were rescued from situations of forced labor in the state. This included 51 adults, 6 children and 2 teenagers. Moreover, the Araçatuba region has […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Frenchman Detained for Drug Trafficking

Globo reported on July 7, 2013 that the Federal Police in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil arrested Frenchman Marc Alain François Beauchamp for international drug trafficking. The man was sentenced in Paris to three years of imprisonment and was ordered for extradition in 2011. In response to his charges, the man will plead for house arrest. […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil and Spain Conduct Joint-Operation Against Human Trafficking

Terra reported on July 7, 2013 that the Federal Police with the help of the Spanish police conducted “Operation Nymphs” both in Brazil and Spain against a gang suspected of trafficking woman. The gang is responsible for exploiting Brazilian women in Spain by promising work and instead forcing prostitution. Nine arrests were made in two […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Man at Airport Smuggles Cocaine Capsules in Intestines

On July 7, 2013 Globo reported that a man was detained at the Tom Jobin International Airport in Rio de Janeiro for trying to smuggle 28 capsules of cocaine in his intestines. The suspect denied carrying cocaine until a CT scan confirmed the capsules. The police confiscated in total 265 grams of cocaine. The flight […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Amapa, Brazil: Military Police Officer Charged with Providing Information to Traffickers

Globo reported on July 7, 2013 that Military Police officer Marcelo Cavalcante of Amapa, Amazonas was charged for providing information to traffickers about civil and military investigations on drug trafficking in Macapa. Cavalcante was head of operations for the Special Operations Battalion (BOPE) prior to dismissal. Information provided to traffickers by Cavalcante allowed traffickers to […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Federal Police and Spanish Police Conduct Joint Anti-Trafficking Operation

On July 9, 2013 Folha de S.Paulo Jornal reported that the Brazilian Federal Police, with the support of the Spanish police, have carried out an operation targeting a gang engaged in trafficking women for prostitution. The police operation, known as Operação Ninfas (Operation Nymphs) was performed simultaneously in Brazil (Goiás and the Federal District) and […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: CPI Requests Information on Police Trafficking Investigations

On July 9, 2013 SINFAZERJ Noticias reported that the Parliamentary Committee of Investigation (CPI), of the Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro (Alerj), has requested the Civil Police in Rio de Janeiro to provide information about ongoing trafficking investigations. CPI Delegate Paulo Ramos stated that, “It was a surprise to learn that […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Dictator’s Son of Equatorial Guinea Accused of Money Laundering in Brazil

primeiraedicao.com.br reported on July 7, 2013 that the son of the African dictator, Teodorin Nguema Obiang Mangue of Equatorial Guinea is accused of money laundering in Brazil. In a document of American Justice, it is suspected that Nguema spent more than US $65 million in goods and services in 2008. His expenses include that of […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brasilia, Brazil: U.S. Denies Publicly Speaking About Spying on Brazilian Citizens

agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br reported that the United States refused to publicly explain to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Brazil the current issue of spying on Brazilian citizens by the NSA. The meeting today at the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia stated the U.S. is waiting on orders from the State Department in Washington on how to properly […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Porto Alegre, Brazil: Spanish Native Detained at Airport for Smuggling Cocaine

zerohora.clicrbs.com.br reported on July 8, 2013 that a Spanish native was arrested at the Salgado Filho airport in Port Alegre, accused of smuggling 3.6 kilograms of cocaine to Porto, Portugal. Agents of the Center for Air Policing detained the individual due to his reaction of being questioned. Police are still uncertain the origin of the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

São Paulo, Brazil: Drug Trafficker Investigated for 2 Years is Arrested

Globo reported on July 8, 2013 that the Federal Police arrested a 31-year old man accused of drug trafficking in Ribeirão, São Paulo. The suspect is known to have sold cocaine in the area. The police discovered a refining cocaine laboratory in Altinópolis, São Paulo, which belonged to the suspect. In addition, the police confiscated […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Poconé, Brazil: Bolivian Pilot Arrested for Transporting 413 kg of Cocaine

circuitomt.com.br reported on July 5, 2013 that the Federal Police and other government agencies arrested in Poconé, Mato Grosso, a Bolivian pilot accused of transporting 413 kilograms of cocaine via aircraft. The suspect managed to escape after the seizure of drugs this past Tuesday (2). During the operation, two suspects: the co-pilot and another victim […]

No CommentsRead this post »

São Paulo, Brazil: Lab Producing 800 kgs of Drugs is Shutdown by Police

Globo reported on July 5, 2013 that a police operation shut down a drug laboratory in Santo Antônio de Posse, São Paulo, suspected to produce up to 800 kilograms of drugs. During the operation, police confiscated 100 kilos of cocaine as well as 300 liters of sulfuric acid, acetone, and other chemicals. The police arrested […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Alagoas, Brazil: Gang Accused of Embezzlement and Other Corruptive Crimes

On July 5, 2013, an operation by Gecoc and the Federal Police arrested five people accused of fraud, forgery, conspiracy, and embezzling public funds in Alagoas. The group of suspects embezzled R$949,476.50 from the public treasury. Amongst three of the suspects who are still fugitives is the former mayor of União dos Palmares, Areski Freitas […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Goiás, Brazil: Couple Uses School Van to Transport Drugs

Globo reported on July 5, 2013 that a 37-year old man and his 26-year old wife were both detained earlier this week for using a school van to traffic drugs in Goiás. The police seized 105 kilograms of marijuana. The arrest was a result of an operation by the State Police Narcotics Suppression (Denarc) in […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brasilia, Brazil: Images Reveal Suspect Accused of Raping Woman in Church

On July 4, 2013, police revealed images of a 50-year old suspect who raped a 20-year old woman inside a church on Wednesday (3) in Brasilia. Police report the suspect conversed with the victim and the bishop the day before the crime. The crime lasted for about 15 minutes in which the victim was discovered […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Sao Paulo, Brazil: 700 kgs of Cocaine Hidden in Truck Transporting Sugar

On July 4, 2013 Globo reported that the Highway Patrol Police in Ituverava, Sao Paulo, confiscated 700 kilograms of cocaine in a truck transporting sugar. The drugs were wrapped in plastic bags and hidden amongst items within the truck. Police report the truck was traveling from Uberaba, Mato Grosso to Porto do Santos, Sao Paulo. […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Amazonas, Brazil: Suspects Arrested for Sexually Exploiting Indigenous Children

On July 3, 2013 Globo reported that the Federal Prosecutor in Amazonas arrested ten suspects accused of sexual exploitation against indigenous children and adolescents of São Gabriel da Cachoeira. The suspects as well, are accused of producing pornographic videos of these indigenous children. 16 children confirmed to being victims of abuse, rape, and sexual exploitation. […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Ponta Pora, Brazil: Drug Traffickers Detained for Smuggling Cocaine

Globo reported on July 3, 2013 that the Civil Police in Ponta Pora, Mato Grosso do Sul, detained three suspects part of gang led by the largest drug dealer in the Federal District of Brasilia. The suspects are accused of receiving and transporting cocaine from other countries such as Bolivia, Colombia, and Paraguay to the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Mato Grosso, Brazil: Police Seize 400 kg of Drugs on Airplane from Bolivia

On July 3, 2013 Globo reported that a Federal Police operation in Poconé, Mato Grosso confiscated 400 pounds of drugs on an airplane from Bolivia. The police intercepted the plane as drug traffickers were unloading the drugs. The police seized US $500,000 hidden in bag that was possibly used for to pay for the drugs. […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Spanish Companies Invest in Hotels in Brazil to Support Domestic Tourism

On July 2, 2013, Globo reported that Spanish companies will invest in the hotel industry in Brazil as a means to increase domestic tourism rather than international tourism for the two upcoming world events in the upcoming years. The Brazilian government wants to increase foreign tourists to 8 million by 2016 as last year; Brazil […]

No CommentsRead this post »

São Paulo, Brazil: Police Shut Down Drug Laboratory

Globo reported on July 3, 2013 that the Military Police closed down a drug laboratory in Gaul, São Paulo. Two men were accused and detained for drug trafficking. On site, police seized 1.3 pounds of cocaine, 10 kg of different substances that are used to increase the amount of narcotics, a gun, ammunition, and other […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Increased Presence of Traffickers Raises Fear Amongst Community Residents

On July 2, 2013 Globo reported that the level of fear for residents of Morro da Covanca in Rio de Janeiro has increased as the number of criminals and traffickers in the community has risen. Many residents claim they are being forced out of their homes and of the community and are afraid to address […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: 5,500 People Protest in Favela Against Police Violence

Terra reported on July 2, 2013 that 5,500 residents of the Maré favela in Rio de Janeiro protested in the street against a police operation last week that killed 10 people. Protesters are demanding a formal apology from the state governor as well as an end to violent operations between criminals and police in these […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: 1,200 Demonstrators Protest on Final Day of the Confederations Cup

Globo reported on June 30, 2013 that the final day for the Confederations Cup, about 1,200 people protested outside the Maracanã stadium. The protest began early in the morning with 5,000 participants holding signs about ending corruption and refusing to privatize the Maracanã stadium. The protests, which became confrontational between protesters and the police, resulted […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rondônia, Brazil: Police Officer Suspected of Fraud in DMV System

Globo reported on June 1, 2013 that Civil Police investigations in Rondônia detained a police officer accused of fraud. The police officer is suspected of issuing false national licenses from the Department of Motor Vehicles. According to police, two gangs are suspected of fraud for selling false documents up to R$4,000 and lowering fines and […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Mato Grosso, Brazil: 72-year old Detained for Transporting Cocaine

Globo reported on June 1, 2013 that the Federal Highway Police seized 239 kilograms of cocaine base paste in a truck transported by a 72-year old man on BR-163 in Mato Grosso. Inside the truck, police discovered several plastic bags with drugs ready to be distributed as well as R$4,600 in cash. The truck driver […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Mato Grosso: Chief Police and Wife Detained for Corruption in Drug Trafficking Scheme

Globo reported on June 29, 2013 that the chief of the Homicide and Protection of Persons and his wife, a Civil Police researcher, were both arrested in Mato Grosso on accusations of protecting drug traffickers. According to police, the couple offered to drug traffickers that with their authoritative power, drug traffickers would not be investigated, […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Survey Reflects 27% Drop in Public Approval of Dilma Administration After Protests

Globo reported on June 29, 2013 that the public approval of the Dilma administration according to the Datafolha research survey stated that approval has dropped to 30%. Prior to the commencement of the protests nationwide, public approval was 57%. This drop is considered the largest since Dilma entered office. The survey also shows that the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Belo Horizonte, Brazil: Bolivian and Two Others Detained for “Mule” Drug Trafficking Scheme

R7 reported on June 28, 2013, that three suspects; one being Bolivian, were detained in Belo Horizonte for international drug trafficking. Civil Police discovered several cocaine capsules to be transported via the body by people known as “mules”. The drugs found are considered “fish scale”. Read Article

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio Claro, Brazil: Child Education Program to Prevent Increased Cases of Drug Trafficking

On June 28, 2013, Globo reported that the city of Rio Claro is working to educate children and young adolescents about resisting participating in drug trafficking activity. The Educational Program of Resistance to Drugs and Violence is a result of the increased number of drug trafficking cases, which has tripled over the first five months […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Cuiabá, Brazil: Corrupted Police Officials Involved in Drug Trafficking Scheme

On June 27, 2013, a police commissioner and a civil police investigator were both arrested during ‘Operation Destruction’ in Cuiabá for drug trafficking association. The two men are accused of protecting drug traffickers and assisting in negotiations to release them in return for benefits from the drug leaders. The investigation began seven months ago in […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Belem, Brazil: Family Members Detained for Drug Trafficking Activity Between Colombia and Brazil

Globo reported on June 27, 2013 that Federal and Civil Police detained six people from the same family in Belem, accused of international drug trafficking. The investigation began in October 2012 in which police confirm the drugs were stored on an island about 40 minutes from Belem. Members of this family were arrested before in […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Spaniard Detained for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering Activity on Three Continents

Terra reported on June 27, 2013 that a Spaniard living in Brazil since 2009 was detained in Barra da Tijuca in Rio de Janeiro, accused of drug trafficking on three different continents as well money laundering. Federal police arrested the suspect, Oliver Martin Ortiz da Zarate, during Operation Monte Perdido with the help of Portuguese […]

No CommentsRead this post »

El Alto, Bolivia: Police Rescue Two Kidnapping Victims

On June 21, 2013 La Razón reported that authorities arrested in El Alto have apprehended three people involved in the kidnapping of two 17-year-old girls. The girls were rescued from the O’Higgins lodging house, where they supposedly remained locked up for two days on the third floor of the building. The suspects allegedly allowed the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Pará, Brazil: Indians Release Hostages After Government Negotiations

Globo reported on June 24, 2013 that Mundurukú Indians in Jacareacanga, Pará, released three hostages who were captured on Friday (21) after negotiations with the Federal government agreed to suspend environmental studies in anticipation of building two power plants in the region. The three hostages are researchers who work for Eletrobras. The Indians seized all […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil Media: Situation out of Control

Bbc.co.uk reported that this week, more than a million people took to the streets of 100 cities in Brazil to mark a rising wave of protest that has coincided with the country’s biggest sporting event for 63 years. The rallies, and the violence that followed, were not, however, sparked by the tournament. It was a […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Acre, Brazil: Three Suspects Arrested for Transporting Drugs from Peru

Globo reported on June 22, 203 that the Federal Police of Cruzeiro do Sul in Acre, detained three suspects for transporting 70 pounds of drugs from Peru to sell in the region. The Federal Police have been investigating the case for the past two months. The drug traffickers were using vessels to transport the drugs […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Dilma Announces Pact With Public Officials to Meet Demand of Protesters

On June 21, 2013, Terra reported that President Dilma responded to the increased use of violence in the protests, such as attacking public and private property, by promising a pact with governors and mayors to fulfill the demands of the protesters. This pact by the President will focus on three issues: that of public transportation, […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Pará, Brazil: Police Operation in 20 Cities Detains 45 Suspects Accused of Drug Trafficking

Globo reported on June 21, 2013 that police operation “Combat II” with 76 arrest warrants, detained 45 suspects accused of drug trafficking and illegal possession of weapons and firearms in Pará. This operation occurred in 20 cities in which police confiscated cocaine, marijuana, shotguns, gunpowder, ammunition, and cash among other items. Some of the cities […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Belo Horizonte, Brazil: 2,000 Protesters Block Major Highway

Terra reported on June 21, 2013 that a protest of about two thousand people in Belo Horizonte stopped traffic on the BR-040 for at least nine miles. The protest is a result of the increased price in bus fare in Ribeirão das Neves as well as the necessary change in social issues. The mobilization of […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Middle Class Protests, cannot meet needs

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: President speaks to the nation video

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil Protests Video

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Approval of Dilma Administration Drops 8% Over Recent Months

redebomdia.com.br reported on June 20, 2013 that the approval of the Dilma administration dropped by 8%; from 63% in March to 55%. In addition, in March, 79% of the public approved how Dilma ran the country, however, the percentage dropped to 71%. Much of the criticism towards the administration is how the government has responded […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazilian Cities Say No to Public Transportation Fare Hike

On June 19, 2013, Terra reported that São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro; in response to the largest protest in the country within the last two decades, agreed to not increase fare on public transportation as hundreds of thousands of people hit the street to demonstrate against the fare hike. Other cities as well agreed […]

No CommentsRead this post »

U.S. State Department Assessment on Brazil’s Effort to Combat Human Trafficking

Terra reported on June 19, 2013 that an assessment report by the U.S. State Department announced that although Brazil does not abide by the minimum standards necessary to combat human trafficking, it is making effort for improvement. The U.S. State Department claims that Brazilian law to prohibit trafficking is vaguely defined. Aside from human trafficking, […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Military Officers Sentenced for Drug Trafficking Association

agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br reported on June 19, 2013 that the Justice of São Pedro da Aldeia sentenced 11 military officers and 13 other suspects accused of drug trafficking in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro. The military officers were accused of accepting bribes to not arrest and convict traffickers in drug communities responsible for supplying the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Resolution Passed to Ban Use of Certain Weapons During Protests

Terra reported on June 18, 2013 that the Council of Defense of Human Rights approved a resolution to ban the use of firearms and restricted weapons of low lethality during public events. Other weapons banned include tear gas and pepper spray. This resolution will attempt to ensure and protect human rights while also encourage non-violence […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Minas Gerais, Brazil: 870 kg of marijuana seized by Federal Highway Police

On June 18, 2013, Globo reported that the Federal Highway Police; part of “Operation Confederation Cup” meant to patrol the main highways of the country during the event, confiscated 936 tablets of marijuana (870 kg) in Fernão Dias, Minas Gerais. The driver who was arrested claimed the drugs were being transported to Belo Horizonte and […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil Will Host UN Committee on Urban Violence in Latin America

Globo reported on June 16, 2013 that two Brazilian jurists will lead a committee by the United Nations this October in Rio de Janeiro, whose mission is to control and offer solutions in regards to increased urban violence in Latin America. The committee will include representatives from 19 countries. The committee will have 18 months […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Support for Protests in Brazil Against Increased Bus Fare Spreads to Europe

Terra reported on June 16, 2013 that about 600 people gathered together in Berlin, Germany to support protests in Brazil against the increased bus fares; especially in São Paulo. Social networks organized the demonstration. Other acts of support took place in Dublin, Ireland. It is reported that other acts of support will take place in […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Porto Alegre, Brazil: Paraguayan Detained for Using Books to Transport Drugs

On June 17, 2013, Globo reported that a 29-year old from Paraguay, was arrested on Sunday (16) at the Salgado Filho International Airport in Porto Alegre. The man is accused for using books to hide and transport cocaine. The Federal Police seized 3.8 kilograms of cocaine hidden inside a magazine as well as drugs found […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Head Trafficker in Rio Favela is Detained

diariodovale.uol.com.br reported on June 16, 2013 that the head drug trafficker in the favelas of Manguinhos and Mandela in the north zone of Rio de Janeiro was arrested on the Presidente Dutra Highway on his way to São Paulo. Wallace Carlos da Conceicao; known as “Churrasquinho”, is considered one of the most wanted criminals in […]

No CommentsRead this post »

São Paulo, Brazil: Egyptian Suspected of Killing Private Driver

Globo reported on June 17, 2013 that an Egyptian man was arrested on Sunday (16) in the north zone of São Paulo, accused of killing a private driver and turning the victim’s car into a taxi. The suspect confessed to killing the victim; Adriano Lopes da Fonseca, to use his car to make money as […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Salvador, Brazil: Police Operation Makes Arrests for Selling Counterfeit Ethanol Fuel

On June 13, 2013, Globo reported that a businessman and an accountant were detained during “Operation Ethanol” in Salvador, Bahia for distributing and marketing counterfeit ethanol fuel. Six companies are suspected of involvement in the scheme. Such illegal activity has resulted in a loss of R$ 383.4 million which will be compensated through taxes. The […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Talks About Use of Drug Land to Resolve Indian-Farmer Land Dispute

On June 13, 2013, Globo reported that Justice Minister José Eduardo Cardozo, farmers, indigenous representatives, as well as members of the government, discussed the possibility of using land that has been confiscated for illegal plantation of drug plants as a possible solution to end the land dispute between the Indians and farmers. However, according to […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Report Reveals Brazil is Most Closed Economy in the G-20

economia.ig.com.br reported on June 12, 2013 that the International Chamber of Commerce in its biannual report ranked Brazil as the most closed economy in the G-20. Since the commencement of the Dilma administration, Brazil has been below the world average of its openness to the world due to its trade policy and openness to investment […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil and Russia Meet To Further Develop Partnership

agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br reported on June 11, 2013, that the foreign minister of Brazil, Antonio Patriota, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, met in Rio de Janeiro to establish a bilateral partnership in economic cooperation as well as in areas of science and technology, nuclear research, and aerospace research. Patriota stated Russia is one of the main […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Senate Approval for U.S. $18 Million Loan to Combat Corruption

On June 11, 2013, Globo reported that the Senate approved a U.S. $18 million loan s by Interamerican Development Bank to help fund programs to combat corruption in the public sector. The President submitted the application and the goal is to strengthen transparency within managers in the public realm. In addition, another loan was approved […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil: Ranked 3rd for Highest Rates of Human Trafficking Activity

correiodoestado.com.br reported that on June 11, 2013 that the state of Mato Grosso do Sul is the third state in Brazil; behind Bahia and Pernambuco, with the highest number of victims of human trafficking. According to a survey by the Federal Region Courts, many of the victims are natives who live along the border regions […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Nova Venda, Brazil: Gang Suspected of Multiple Murders in Region is Captured

otempo.com.br reported on June 30, 2013 that the Civil Police arrested three men and four women suspected to be responsible for at least eight murders in the region of Nova Venda. The investigation began eight-months ago. Police arrested the suspects after a fight about trafficking between two gangs in the region. The leader of the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Business Reopens After Traffickers Order Shutdown

jcnet.com.br reported on June 10, 2013, that business in Providência; in the central area of Rio de Janeiro, reopened on Sunday (9) after traffickers ordered the closure of businesses to mourn death of drug dealer Diogo de Oliveira Santos who was killed by police. This is the second occurrence in the last 2 weeks in […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Goianira, Brazil: Teacher Accused of Rape is Civil Guard of Capital

expressomt.com.br reported on June 10, 2013 that the 44-year old elementary school teacher who was arrested on Saturday (8) for charges of raping at least 18 students in Goianira; 32 km from Goiânia, was as well, sub-inspector of the Civil Guard of the capital. Holding two public offices is considered illegal. The victims of the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Man Shot After Mistakenly Entering Favela

br.noticias.yahoo.com reported on June 9, 2013, that an engineer by the name Gil Augusto Gomes Barbosa, was shot in the head on Saturday morning after mistakenly entering the Vila do João favela in the Complexo da Maré in the city of Rio de Janeiro. According to the Civil Police, the man mistakenly entered the favela […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: President Visits Portugal for Privatization Debate and Bilateral Educational Agreements

On June 10, 2013, Terra reported that President Dilma returned to Brazil after visiting Portugal in response to the closing of the Year of Brazil in Portugal. However, the visit was intended to develop educational agreements between both countries as well as Brazilian companies working to help privatize Portuguese companies. Companies to be privatized include […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil orange growers bracing for tough season

High production costs have orange growers in Brazil, the world’s top orange juice exporter, bracing for a tough citrus season, despite last season’s record harvest and high juice prices. “The orange market is going through its worst moment in two years: world consumption is stagnating, production costs are rising and processors are getting more and […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Indigenous People in Brazil Murdered Increases by 269%

ultimosegundo.ig.com.br reported on June 7, 2013, that the number of indigenous people murdered, increased by 269% during the Lula and Dilma administration, compared to the eight-year term of Fernando Henrique Cardoso. The Indigenous Missionary Council (CIMI) reported that during the Cardoso administration, there was an average of 20.8 deaths per year compared to Lula with […]

No CommentsRead this post »

1.5 Tons of Marijuana Seized in Paraguay

Froml lainformacion.com on June 5, 2013- Agents from the National Anti-drug Ministry of Paraguay (Senad) seized 1.5 tons of marijuana that was hidden in a tourist bus whose final destination was Rio de Janeiro. A spokesperson from Senad indicated that another bus had already crossed in Brazil and would later be intercepted by the Brazilian […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Police Visit Tourist Hotels to Combat Sexual Exploitation

Terra reported on June 6, 2013, that a special police operation in Rio de Janeiro will work to inform tourism professionals against sexual exploitation of children and adolescents in the tourist city. A variety of police officials will visit 30 hotels in Copacabana to ask managers to sign a petition against sexual exploitation as main […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Police Operation Seizes R$30,000 in Drugs

On June 6, 2013, Globo reported that the civil and military police of Barra Mansa, Rio de Janeiro; through “Operation Recovering Luck”, detained five suspects accused of drug trafficking. Police were investigating the suspects since April 2013. Upon seizure, police confiscated R$30,000 of cocaine, crack, marijuana, firearms, ammunition, and cell phones. According to police, for […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Pará, Brazil: 26 Suspects Detained for Theft Charges

Globo reported on June 6, 2013 that Operation Asphalt Pirates; conducted by the Federal Police, arrested 26 suspects accused of cargo theft. Two police officers of Pará and Minas Gerais were involved in the scandal. The investigation; with the help of 200 police officers, began in February of last year, with criminal members in Goiás, […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Within a Decade, Trade Between Brazil and Africa Increases by 416%

On June 6, 2013, Terra reported the Ministry of Development, Industry, and Foreign Trade reveal there has been a significant increase in Brazil’s economic relationship with African countries. Between 2002 and 2012, trade has increased by 416%. African countries have increased their use of Brazilian exports to 5.03% in 2012 compared to 3.91% in 2002. […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Pará, Brazil: Police Seize 155 Blocks of Crack from Drug Traffickers

On June 5, 2013, Globo reported the Civil and Military Police detained five suspects accused of drug trafficking activity in Almeirim, Pará. Four of the suspects are considered members of a drug trafficking organization in the region. One of the suspects by the name of Maranhão, is considered one of the main dealers in the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Deforestation Rates in Amazon Drops 84%

noticias.band.uol.com.br reported on June 5, 2013, that the rate of deforestation in the Amazon fell by 84% compared to rates in 2004 when the government first launched the program designed to combat the environmental crime. Brazil’s goal is reduce deforestation in the Amazon to 3.9 square kilometers in the next seven years. Environmental Minister, Izabella […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Colombian Drug Lord Detained at Airport for False Documentation

correio24horas.com.br reported on June 3, 2013 that the Federal Police this past Friday evening, arrested Colombian drug lord John Freddy Manco Torres, known as “El Indio”, at the Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (Galeão) in Rio de Janeiro. “El Indio” was arrested due to the use of a false Spanish passport. He was wanted in […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Mata Atlântica Records Highest Rate of Deforestation Since 2008

On June 4, 2013, Globo announced a report by the National Institute for Space Research and the non-governmental organization SOS Mata Atlântica, that deforestation in the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Forest), has been at its highest since 2008. Between 2011 and 2012, 235 km ² of forest was removed for infrastructure projects. The states of Minas […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Minas Gerais, Brazil: Operation to Prevent Criminal Activity Detains 55 Suspects

otempo.com.br reported on June 4, 2013 that Operation “Secure Currencies”; a joint task conducted by various government agencies, detained 55 individuals in Minas Gerais in attempt to prevent the entry of drugs, weapons, explosives, and other illegal objects into the state. During the operation, 7,465 drivers were questioned and about 5,000 vehicles were stopped and […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brasilia, Brazil: Police Detain Head Cocaine Trafficker in Region

Globo reported on June 3, 2013, that on Sunday (2), the Civil Police arrested eight suspects; including one man known as Wesley do Espírito Santo assumed to be the main cocaine trafficker in the Federal District. The police report, the seizure of 110 kilograms of cocaine is considered the largest seizure of cocaine in the […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: International Drug Traffickers Detained After Federal Police Operation

On June 4, 2013, Terra reported that the Federal Public Ministry in Rio de Janeiro, in conjunction with the Federal Police and the IRS, concluded a United Nations operations intended to combat a group of 15 suspects; Brazilians, Colombians, Spaniards, and Portuguese, accused of international drug trafficking and money laundering. One investigation included that of […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: 10 Arrested in Operation against Multinational Drug Gang

From lainformacion.com on June 4, 2013- An operation coordinated by Brazil, with the cooperation of Interpol, the United States, Spain, Colombia, and Uruguay, led to the dismantling of a drug gang accused of shipping cocaine from Brazil to Europe. Eight people were arrested in Brazil, one in Portugal, and one in Switzerland. The operation came […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Colombian Drug Trafficker Arrested in Brazil

From lainformacion.com on June 3, 2013- According to Brazilian authorities, the Brazilian Federal Police arrested a Colombian citizen, who was convicted of drug trafficking in Colombia, while he was attempting to enter Brazil with a false passport. Although authorities did not release the name of the Colombian, Globo TV claimed it was Freddy Manco Torres, […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: Use of Scanners Along the Border to Combat Organized Crime

On June 3, 2013, Terra reported that President Dilma announced the use of mobile scanners to help combat organized crime along border areas. The modernized scanners will be able to detect drugs and weapons inside trucks, cars, as well as drugs hidden in tires. The federal government will spend R$30 million to border states to […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Brazil: 1.97 Million Children Work in Unsafe Environments

otempo.com.br reported on June 3, 2013, that according to the National Research by Household Sample, between 1.56 million and 1.97 million children and adolescents work in hazardous and unhealthy occupations/environments. Children and adolescents work in the production of tobacco, cotton, sugar cane, coal plants, drug trafficking, and sexual exploitation among other areas. The National Plan […]

No CommentsRead this post »

Mato Grosso, Brazil: Drug Abuse Grows in Indigenous Communities

midianews.com.br reported on June 2, 2013 that in Mato Grosso; a state with one of the highest numbers of indigenous people, Indians are suffering from drug addiction; primarily that of cocaine base paste and crack. The government is still uncertain of how to effectively identify and handle the situation. Lectures in such communities have been […]

No CommentsRead this post »