BRAZIL: Drug Wars

The dizzy economy of Brazil has resulted in creating a large gap between the wealthy and the destitute (stands second in world ranking). A huge amount of poor population living in slums/favelas dodge incidents of violence including crimes, muggings, armed robbery and sexual assault on a daily basis. The unplanned natures of these favelas that are encroached illegally on hills have a maze of pathways and narrow alleyways, making it easy for gangs to navigate and hide.

In major cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Brasília, Salvador and Recife, criminal gangs reportedly rob and assault tourists, use unregistered taxis to abduct and force them to withdraw funds from ATMs. Naturally then, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is common in breaches and outdoor markets where thieves operate from. Human trafficking and slavery cases also have been reported.

But the most life-threatening crime can be traced down to the drug trade. Brazil is a heavy importer to illicit cocaine and plays a huge part of the international drug route. Locally produced arms and marijuana also make rounds in the drug circuit. Thousands of people who are involved in this trade are fatally shot due to their inability to pay back or simply die due to consumption.

The shantytowns are infamous for the local drug mafia. Started in early 1990s there are several gangs, each of who proclaim a certain area in the favelas, where they govern, rule, increase their network and practice their drug trade from.

Apart from engaging in drug-dealing, these gangs also venture into illegal businesses such as distribution of bottled cooking gas, cable television service and transportation. They employ a number of youths, who find this the most viable option to earn a quick buck.

 People residing those areas are controlled and restricted to their command. If the word of their atrocities spreads out in public, a typical punishment includes burning rubber tire around the person’s chest and arms. There is also much inter-gang violence in favelas which claim the lives of thousands of innocent people.

The government, in order eradicate this problem, introduced a policy where the Pacification Police Units (UPP) are installed in slums to take actions to modify the neighborhood. They carry out operations to remove gangs and take their occupied space. Whether they flee or hide somewhere is still unknown.

While some people feel the police invade and cause fear, mistrust and hatred amongst each other and refuse to cooperate, others think it’s a great move to bring harmony and prevent the young form drug business. Police officers do their best to change their image of being brutal by being friendly and greeting locals warmly. They have reduced 80% of murders since their arrival in 2009. The favelas are now also open to tourists who come to witness the uneven structure with elaborate graffiti on walls depicting their rich culture.

Brazilian youth have energy but lack opportunity and vision which push them into drugs and working for criminal gangs. The government, society as well as the media are working towards seizing the menace once and for all before the arrival of games season in Brazil in 2014.