The notorious leader of Rio de Janeiro state’s largest paramilitary group, Luis Antonio da Silva Braga, known as “Zinho,” turned himself in to the Federal Police on Sunday, putting an end to his fugitive status since 2018. Zinho, facing at least a dozen outstanding warrants, was dubbed “public enemy Number 1” by authorities. His surrender was hailed as a victory in the fight against criminal groups by Brazil’s Justice Minister Flavio Dino.
The rise of militia groups in Brazil dates back about four decades, originating as community self-defense units comprised of former police, soldiers, firefighters, and prison guards against drug gang threats. Despite their initial intentions, these groups evolved into extorting protection money from businesses and assumed control over services in Rio’s impoverished favelas. Over time, they expanded their activities to include drug trafficking and money laundering.
A 2020 study revealed that militias control over half of Rio’s territory, enforcing a reign of terror in impoverished neighborhoods with a population exceeding two million. In October, the killing of Zinho’s nephew and lieutenant led to violent reprisals, including the torching of 35 buses and a train drivers’ cabin. The militias were also implicated in the murders of three visiting doctors, mistakenly targeted due to an apparent rivalry.
Zinho’s surrender marks a significant development in the ongoing battle against these criminal organizations, shedding light on the complex challenges posed by paramilitary groups in Rio de Janeiro.