The Rio de Janeiro Civil Police identified weapons used by the Armed Forces of South American countries among the 91 rifles seized during a mega-operation carried out in the Penha and Alemão Complexes. Investigations reveal that the weapons originate from Venezuela, Argentina, Peru and Brazil.
Most of the weapons seized are 556 and 762 caliber rifles, considered large caliber. The insignia and markings found on the weapons also indicate connections with criminal factions in other Brazilian states. According to the police, criminals rebuild them using additional parts purchased online.
Historical record of seizures
The state of Rio de Janeiro registered one in 2025. From January to September, 593 rifles were seized in the state alone, the highest rate since 2007, when mapping began. In the same period, Brazil recorded 1,471 seizures, indicating that two out of every five rifles are seized in Rio de Janeiro.
The analysis of the seized arsenal reveals the fragility of Brazilian borders and highlights the connections between organized crime in Rio de Janeiro and other South American countries. The Civil Police reported that some of the weapons seized are in good condition and could be incorporated into the arsenal of the state’s police forces, while the rest will be destroyed.
