Brazil: State of emergency in Angra dos Reis due to violence

Event

The mayor of Angra dos Reis (Rio de Janeiro state) declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, August 21, requesting federal intervention to address the recent wave of violence in the city. The mayor may also call for the suspension of operations at the nuclear power plant located within the city due to the ongoing public insecurity.

Context

A state of emergency was previously declared in Angra dos Reis in May, due to multi-day protest that blocked evacuation routes necessary for public safety in the event of a nuclear-related issue.

Crime rates in Rio de Janeiro state, rising steadily since 2016, reached all-time highs in 2017 and again in 2018. A total of 6732 homicides were reported statewide in 2017. The violence is largely attributed to fighting between heavily armed security forces and criminal gangs in favelas. Federal forces have been in command of security in the state since February 2018 and are expected to remain in control until at least the end of the year. According to one study, violent deaths have increased by 80 percent since the beginning of the military intervention.

Advice

Due to high crime rates in Rio de Janeiro state - and throughout Brazil more generally - individuals should remain vigilant at all times, never enter favelas (slums), and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Conceal conspicuous signs of wealth to avoid attracting the attention of would-be thieves. Note that criminals are often armed; never offer resistance in the event of a mugging.