More than 30 buses were burned by criminal groups in Rio de Janeiro. The cause of the attacks was the killing of a gang member by the police. The arson attacks disrupted the city’s bus system, making it difficult for residents and workers in the region to get home.
The arson attacks occurred mainly in the western part of Rio de Janeiro, where rival criminal groups are fighting for territorial control. According to the police, they occurred after a police operation that resulted in the death of the nephew of the leader of one of the local gangs.
More than 30 buses burned by criminal groups in Rio de JaneiroReuters
Rio’s so-called militias, often made up of current and former police officers, have become one of the biggest security threats in the region. Originally formed as a self-defense force for poor neighborhoods devastated by drug gangs, they have now evolved into criminal organizations operating in a wide variety of areas.
More than 30 buses burned by criminal groups in Rio de JaneiroReuters
Rio Onibus said 20 of the vehicles were city buses, five were part of the city’s rapid transit fleet and the rest were charter or tour buses.
The arson attacks disrupted the city’s bus system, making it difficult for residents and workers in the region to get home. Classes at public schools in the area were also canceled.
More than 30 buses burned by criminal groups in Rio de JaneiroReuters
The Military Police said they detained 12 suspects involved in the fires and prevented 15 people from setting fire to the truck.